Resources & Practical Guides

Essential tools, checklists, and resources designed specifically for young adults living with ostomies

Currently serving young ostomates in the USA and Canada

Emergency Kit Essentials

Practical

A comprehensive guide to building the perfect emergency kit for home, work, and travel. Never be caught unprepared again.

  • Complete supply checklist
  • Recommended quantities
  • Storage and organization tips
  • Travel adaptations
View Checklist

Insurance & Financial Help (USA & Canada)

Financial

Navigate insurance coverage in the USA and Canada, find financial assistance programs, and understand your rights as someone with a medical condition.

  • US insurance navigation (Medicare/Medicaid)
  • Canadian provincial health coverage
  • Financial assistance programs
  • Prescription assistance programs
Get Help

Product Recommendations

Reviews

Real reviews from young ostomates about products that actually work. No marketing fluff, just honest experiences.

  • Bags and adhesives by brand
  • Clothing and accessories
  • Skin care products
  • Travel gear recommendations
Browse Reviews

Doctor Visit Prep

Medical

Make the most of your medical appointments with structured preparation guides and question templates.

  • Pre-visit preparation checklist
  • Questions to ask your surgeon
  • Questions for your ostomy nurse
  • Symptom tracking templates
Prepare for Visits

Workplace Disclosure Guide

Career

A decision framework to help you navigate whether, when, and how to disclose your ostomy at work.

  • Disclosure decision tree
  • Legal rights and protections
  • Accommodation request templates
  • Managing workplace relationships
Explore Guide

Travel Planning Kit

Lifestyle

Everything you need to travel confidently with an ostomy, from packing lists to TSA tips.

  • TSA and security guidelines
  • International travel considerations
  • Packing strategies and lists
  • Emergency contact templates
Plan Your Trip

Quick Reference Checklists

Basic Emergency Kit

  • 2-3 complete ostomy systems (your usual brand/size)
  • Adhesive remover wipes
  • Skin barrier wipes or spray
  • Small scissors (TSA-approved if travelling)
  • Measuring guide or template
  • Disposal bags
  • Small bottle of water
  • Paper towels or tissues
  • Change of underwear
  • Emergency contact information

First Doctor Visit Questions

  • What type of ostomy do I have and why was it needed?
  • Is this temporary or permanent?
  • What should I expect during recovery?
  • What activities should I avoid and for how long?
  • How do I know if something is wrong?
  • Who do I call with questions after hours?
  • When should I follow up?
  • What supplies do I need and where do I get them?
  • Are there foods I should avoid?
  • When can I return to work/school/normal activities?

Emergency Situations - When to Seek Help

Call your doctor or go to the ER immediately if you experience:

  • No output from your ostomy for more than 6-8 hours (with cramping)
  • Severe abdominal pain or cramping
  • Nausea and vomiting that won't stop
  • High fever (over 101.5°F)
  • Severe dehydration
  • Changes in stoma color (very pale, dark, or blue)
  • Stoma pulling back into your abdomen
  • Excessive bleeding from the stoma
  • Deep cuts or lacerations around the stoma

Always trust your instincts. If something feels seriously wrong, seek medical attention.

Helpful Organizations & Resources

Organizations and resources available in North America to support your ostomy journey

USA Resources

United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA)

National US organization providing support and resources for ostomates.

Visit Website →

Wound, Ostomy & Continence Nurses Society

Find certified ostomy nurses across the USA.

Find a Nurse →

Canadian Resources

Ostomy Canada Society

National Canadian organization supporting ostomates across all provinces.

Visit Website →

Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy (CAET)

Find certified enterostomal therapy nurses in Canada.

Find a Nurse →

North America & Online

Phoenix Magazine

Free quarterly magazine for ostomates with practical tips and stories.

Subscribe Free →

Young Ostomate Collective Community

Virtual support groups and resources for young adults across North America.

Join Community →

Contact Us

Questions about our resources or community? We're here to help young adults navigate ostomy life.

Get in Touch →

Currently serving young ostomates in the USA and Canada. As we grow, we hope to expand resources to support ostomates worldwide.