WA Ostomy Association

20/11/2025

19/11/2025

Exciting news for those with fistulising Crohn's disease - hopefully relief can be on the way soon

Scientists at Oxford University have identified the rogue fibroblast cells at the heart of Crohn’s disease fistulas, which are painful tunnel like tracts that affect up to 30 percent of patients.

Using cutting edge single cell and spatial analysis, the researchers found these fibroblasts behave like fetal gut cells, aggressively breaking down tissue and laying down scar tissue. This process allows these tunnels to form and persist.

Excitingly, traces of these cells are seen even in very early Crohn’s ulcers, meaning new treatments could one day prevent fistulas before they start.

The team’s work creates a valuable public resource for scientists and offers hope for novel drug discovery focused on real gut healing, not just inflammation control.

This could transform care for people with inflammatory bowel disease worldwide.

If you or someone you know is affected by Crohn’s, this breakthrough brings us closer to more effective treatments and better futures.

15/11/2025

https://sportmanual.co.uk/2025/11/12/bodybuilder-proudly-returns-to-the-stage-with-stoma-bag-following-life-altering-bowel-cancer-diagnosis/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=larrywheels&utm_campaign=picturepost&fbclid=IwZnRzaAOFY3FleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5CGNhbGxzaXRlAjI1AAEezroB7uUHrRjmyIvzSEaYyndXWew2b1X7MSdN28kOIP2KrLlVbKaxm81l04A_aem_h0anDfZVd1REiruu4hRfqg

A Welsh bodybuilder who was told he might not live past 40 after doctors initially missed his bowel cancer has made a defiant return to competition — scars, stoma bag and all.

13/11/2025

Kalgoorlie 7-9th November 2025

Last weekend was a whistle stop visit to Kalgoorlie to attend the ostomy support group and run a STN clinic.

It was lovely to catch up with familiar faces and some new . We had 6 members and 1 partner attend the support group meeting and a total of 12 ostomates were seen over the weekend.

It was great to catch up with Anne who has recently completed the STN course and exploring ways that she can utilise her new skills for the benefit of the ostomy community in and around Kalgoorlie.

There was also time for a visit to the general ward at Kalgoorlie hospital where hospital ostomy supplies were checked and discussions with staff had re the ongoing challenges of supporting ostomates, particularly those who have surgery in Kalgoorlie.

Before leaving town there was opportunity to meet with Abbie who is hoping to attend the next ostomy support group in December.

Thank you once again to Gloria and her team at The Goldfields Women’s Health Centre for the ongoing use of their facilities.

Narrogin and perhaps a visit to Northam before the end of December will hail the completion of this years rural visits.

12/11/2025

Two years ago I had to evacuate my house with my kids due to a bushfire emergency. In a moment of panic I didn’t plan. I just grabbed clothes and my ostomy kit. I didn’t grab enough belongings as I naively thought I’d be fine to return the next day. We were lucky, it was only a few days. There was no damage to my property but the fire was less than 100 metres from my house.
This morning I received an email from the ABC about being ready and planning for emergencies. Here is the link. Also think about having a grab and go bag for your ostomy supplies!!

Up to date information about bushfires, storms, flooding and other emergencies from around Australia, along with advice to protect you and your property.

12/11/2025

10/11/2025

A reminder to all that WA Ostomy will be closed for a period of time between Christmas and the New Year to allow our volunteers and staff a well deserved break.

We encourage those who have had their stoma for more than 6 months to consider placing a double order for the holiday period.

If you will need products before we close for Christmas we strongly recommend that your order is placed by 1pm on Friday December 5th.

08/11/2025

Always be kind to yourself and your body 💜

Sorry, my dear body, for all the hurt I put you through.
Sorry for the harsh words and unkind thoughts.
Sorry for the times I wished you were different.
Sorry for the moments I made fun of you, and for every time I turned against you.

I’m sorry for pushing medication after medication on you, even when you begged me to stop.
Sorry for not listening to your quiet cries for help.
Sorry for neglecting your needs and letting you fall when you needed care the most.
Sorry for making you fight far longer than you had to.

But thank you — for staying with me through it all.
Thank you for finding the strength to keep going, even when I didn’t treat you kindly.
Now, you can rest.
And together, we will step forward into a brighter, gentler future.

—Josefine

29/10/2025

****Reminder****

The WA Ostomy Annual General Meeting will be held on 8th November 2025. Details were emailed to members in recent weeks, if you have not received this email and would like more details please don't hesitate to contact us.

The AGM is your opportunity to find out how we are working for you, give feedback on our activities and help shape the future of the organisation. As a member owned incorporation we work for you, and your feedback is essential in keeping us on the right path!

22/10/2025

This Invisible Disabilities Awareness Week, we’re shining a light on Crohn’s and Colitis — two chronic, invisible diseases that affect over 10 million people worldwide.

21/10/2025

20/10/2025

🌻

It’s Invisible Disabilities Week (19–25 October)! 🌻

Around 80–85% of people with a disability have one that isn’t visible. These include neurological, cognitive, sensory, mental health, and chronic conditions that aren’t always immediately apparent.

Not all disabilities are visible — but a little understanding and kindness can go a long way in making everyone feel seen and supported.

Image description: A green graphic with sunflower design promoting Invisible Disabilities Week, 19th–25th October. It features a Sunflower lanyard, a person icon with a sunflower, and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower logo.