North Central OK Ostomy 2007-02 Ten (new) Commandments for Ostomates

From North Central Oklahoma Ostomy Outlook February 2007:

Ten (new) Commandments for Ostomates

from Houston (TX) Ostomy Association

Thou shalt allow thyself to be sad, or angry, or depressed on occasion. Who said you always have to have a good attitude.
Thou shalt not let the above emotions become a way of life.
Thou shalt seek help, education, and support if thine unhappy emotions overcome thee.
Thou shalt learn to care for thy ostomy. Letting others do it for you, if you are physically able, is a cop-out.
Thou shalt seek out thy WOC (ET) nurse if thou art not satisfied with thine products.
Thou shalt not hide thyself away. Get out and do the things you used to do. You can.
Thou shalt not be ashamed.
Thou shalt cultivate a sense of humor about thine ostomy. There are worse things. Far worse.
Thou shalt set an example to the non-ostomy world. An example of triumph over adversity, courage over pity, and pride over embarrassment.
Thou shalt help other ostomates. Join your local UOAA group, donate money, volunteer your time.

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This page last revised 2007-02-06

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