Fundraising for ostomy bags with Lions Club (Loresho)
Empowering Lives: Fundraising for Ostomy Bags by Kenya Ostomy Associations
Introduction
Living with an ostomy can be a challenging journey, but with the right support and resources, it can also be a fulfilling and empowering experience. In Kenya, many individuals face the daily reality of managing their ostomies, and the cost of ostomy supplies, especially ostomy bags, can pose a significant financial burden. However, hope shines through as Kenya Ostomy Associations come together, determined to make a positive impact in the lives of ostomates. In this blog, we will explore the commendable efforts of these associations to raise funds and provide much-needed support to those in need.
Understanding the Ostomy Journey
Before diving into the fundraising efforts, let’s understand the significance of ostomy bags in the lives of ostomates. An ostomy is a life-saving surgical procedure that involves creating an opening in the abdomen to redirect bodily waste or fluids from the digestive or urinary systems. This procedure is often necessary for individuals who face challenges with their digestive or urinary functions due to medical conditions like cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or congenital defects.
For those who undergo ostomy surgery, ostomy bags become a lifeline. These specially designed bags provide a secure and discreet way to collect waste or urine, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities with newfound confidence and comfort.
The Financial Challenge
While the benefits of ostomy bags are undeniable, their recurring costs can be overwhelming for many individuals, especially in regions with limited access to healthcare resources. This financial burden often becomes an additional obstacle for those already coping with the physical and emotional challenges of living with an ostomy.
Kenya Ostomy Associations collaborates with Lions Club of Loresho to raise funds for purchasing ostomy bags
The Kenya Ostomy Association has joined forces with the Lions Club of Loresho in a noble endeavor aimed at raising funds for the procurement of colostomy bags. Colostomy bags are vital medical supplies used by individuals who have undergone colostomy surgery, a procedure often necessitated by conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or traumatic injury to the colon.
Recognizing the importance of these essential supplies in maintaining the health and dignity of ostomy patients, both organizations have come together in a collaborative effort to address the needs of this vulnerable population. By pooling their resources and leveraging their respective networks, the Kenya Ostomy Association and the Lions Club of Loresho aim to ensure that individuals living with ostomies have access to the necessary supplies to manage their condition effectively.
The fundraising initiatives will involve various activities such as charity walks, community events, and awareness campaigns to garner support and raise awareness about the challenges faced by ostomy patients. Additionally, both organizations will actively engage with sposnors, and donors to secure financial contributions towards the purchase of colostomy bags.
During the meeting, Sally Agallo, founder of KOA shared a presentation on the need for support and received support from a Convatec bags representative donor in Jordan, who pledged $5,000 worth of ostomy bags and supplies.
Through this partnership, the Kenya Ostomy Association and the Lions Club of Loresho demonstrate their commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of ostomy patients across Kenya. By coming together for a common cause, they embody the spirit of compassion, solidarity, and collective action, serving as beacons of hope for individuals in need of ostomy support.