The Niagara Ostomy Association was started by people interested in helping others to overcome the effects of ostomy surgery and adjust to a normal life. We have lost the early records of the chapter but know that it has functioned continuously since at least 1979, and likley earlier than that. We are currently researching for the exact date. NOA has always used public buildings for meetings to minimize operating expenses. Members provide mutual support for self-management of their ostomies, raise funds through planned activities sufficient to maintain the Chapter and when sufficient funds are available provide a donation to help send Niagara children ostomates to summer camp.
Over the years concerned members have attended UOAC led training programs to become Certified Ostomy Visitors to better support new ostomates regain their self-confidence and morale. In 2006, NOA began a formal Ostomy Visitor Program with a number of members becoming Certified Ostomy Visitors and the Chapter advertising and promoting their service to the Niagara medical community. The program is building as the Chapter receives more referrals and requests for visits.
