New Resource Launch for World Ostomy Day 2026
"What Would You Do?" A New Guide to Supporting Someone Living with a Stoma
As part of World Ostomy Day 2026, Crohn's & Colitis Ireland is proud to launch a new resource designed to help families, friends, colleagues, schools, workplaces and communities better understand how to support someone living with a stoma.
"What Would You Do? A Guide to Supporting Someone Living with a Stoma" is a practical, accessible resource that reminds us of an important truth: nobody lives with a stoma alone.
Whether a person has a stoma as a result of Crohn's disease, Ulcerative Colitis, bowel cancer, diverticular disease or another condition, the support they receive from those around them can have a profound impact on their confidence, wellbeing and quality of life.
It Takes a Village
This resource builds on Crohn's & Colitis Ireland's 2026 awareness theme, "It Takes a Village", recognising that living with a chronic condition does not just affect one individual. It affects families, friendships, workplaces, schools, sports clubs and communities.
People often want to help but may not know how.
The guide encourages readers to think about how they would respond if someone they cared about was living with a stoma and offers simple, practical ways to provide meaningful support.
From parents and partners to teachers, employers and friends, everyone has a role to play in creating a more understanding and inclusive society.
What's Included in the Resource?
The guide explores:
- What life with a stoma can look like at different ages and stages of life
- Practical ways family members and friends can provide support
- How schools, workplaces and communities can foster greater inclusion
- Common myths and misconceptions about stomas
- The importance of dignity, empathy and understanding
- Everyday actions that can help build confidence and independence
The resource also features a real-life Stoma Warrior story, demonstrating how a simple act of kindness and understanding can transform what might otherwise be a stressful and embarrassing situation.
At its heart, the guide focuses on one question:
"What would you do?"
Because often, the most meaningful support doesn't come from having all the answers. It comes from showing compassion, understanding and respect.
Why This Resource Matters
For many people living with a stoma, concerns about stigma, embarrassment and public perception can be as challenging as the physical aspects of stoma management.
A supportive response from a family member, friend, colleague or even a stranger can make all the difference.
By increasing awareness and encouraging open conversations, we can help create communities where people living with a stoma feel seen, supported and included.
World Ostomy Day is an opportunity not only to raise awareness about stomas but also to celebrate the resilience, strength and achievements of the ostomy community.
Find Out More
The new resource is now available on the Crohn's & Colitis Ireland website to mark World Ostomy Day 2026.
Click here to download the guide today
For further information, practical advice, support services and educational resources relating to stomas, visit the Stoma Section of the Crohn's & Colitis Ireland website.
Together, we can challenge stigma, build understanding and create a world where no one has to navigate life with a stoma alone.
Because when it comes to living well with a stoma, it truly takes a village!