WHEREAS, an ostomy is a type of surgery that creates an opening (stoma) in the abdomen that allows for the removal of bodily waste when a person has lost the normal function of digestive or urinary systems due to birth defects, colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, trauma, and other medical conditions; and
WHEREAS, an estimated 725,000 to 1 million Americans have an ostomy, with approximately 100,000 new ostomy procedures performed each year; and
WHEREAS, ostomy or continent diversion surgery can occur at any age and does not lower life expectancy; and
WHEREAS, ostomy surgery can be lifesaving for affected individuals and can often alleviate much of the discomfort experienced by patients with more severe medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome; and
WHEREAS, despite their improved quality of life, patients living with ostomies can often face discrimination and embarrassment; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina is committed to increasing public understanding and acceptance of those affected by ostomy surgery, and of those who have undergone this lifesaving procedure;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 7, 2023, as “OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.