Giving the ostomy community a voice
Hello kind supporters!
My name is Christine Kim, and I am the founder of the online publication, OstomyConnection. Two words that describe exactly what we do each and every day — connect with ostomates (people living with an ostomy). You can learn more about what an ostomy is from the United Ostomy Associations of America.
Why did I start OC?
At age 11, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, a painful and debilitating illness which caused severe inflammation in my digestive system. By age 21 the disease became so unmanageable that permanent ileostomy surgery was performed in 1994. At the time, little support was available — an issue that had me wondering… How many people are living with an ostomy? And where do they go for help?
The early days.
Doing something significant for the ostomy community has been a long-time goal. The idea of starting a website began back in 2005, but it was 10 years later that I finally stopped dreaming and took massive action with the vision of becoming a global media publisher.
It's no coincidence that OC was launched on May 25, 2015... exactly 21 years to the date when I had my own ostomy surgery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The fact that I am living my dream for the work that I do, tells me anything is possible.
OstomyConnection is on a mission to create big change. Would you like to help?
Not too long ago, the world wasn’t ready to hear about ostomies. It’s been known as the “secret surgery” because many people who have an ostomy don't want others to know. Nowadays, more and more people are talking openly about living with an illness or injury, and how ostomy surgery saved their life. The movement is growing and we're part of it.
We serve those who serve others.
Our commitment to advocacy is an important part of our work. We've joined forces with non-profit groups and advocates from around the world to make ostomy awareness as impactful as possible.
We believe in giving back.
We're ready and willing to provide anything we can to make the ostomy community better. You can learn more about our charity Kindred Box, and how we are partnering with organizations that send donated medical supplies to people in need.
We believe in our work.
We're proud to be part of an expanding media industry that gives our community a voice. Our awesome team of writers are all independent journalists, and creating great content takes time, hard work and money to produce. But we do it because we believe what ostomates say and how they feel matters. For as little as $1, you can support our site — and it only takes a minute. Thank you!
I envision the global ostomy community as an empowered and thriving group. It's because of generous supporters like you that we are truly making a difference.
With sincere gratitude,
Christine Kim
Ostomate & Founder
Connect with us:
Facebook /ostomyconnection
Instagram @ostomyconnection
Medium @OstomyConnection
Tumblr /OstomyConnection
Twitter @OstomyConnect
Website: OstomyConnection.com
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