Empowering Ostomates Through Support and Care

Stomal Awareness Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness and support for people living with a stoma — a surgically created opening that allows waste to exit the body into a pouch. The week aims to break the stigma surrounding stomas and highlight the challenges, achievements, and strength of individuals known as ostomates. 

This year, the Prince of Wales Hospital and Sydney Children’s Hospital Stomal Therapy teams proudly celebrated Stomal Awareness Week. The event serves as an important reminder of the critical role played by families, carers, ostomy associations, industry partners, support groups, stomal therapy nurses, and healthcare professionals in supporting ostomates. 

The Stomal Therapy CNC’s had the opportunity to mix with staff, patients and visitors to the hospital. People were able to explore the display stand and ask any questions they had. These efforts aim to empower ostomates with knowledge, confidence, and access to quality care. 

Stomal Awareness Week also encourages open conversations about bowel and bladder health, the different types of stomas — colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy — and the importance of early diagnosis and mental health support.  

Published 22 July 2025