Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-10-01

RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY

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Context

On 2026-10-01, Representative Brian K. Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY" in the House.

Full Text

RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 156 (Thursday, October 1, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 156 (Thursday, October 1, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1012] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY ______ HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Thursday, October 1, 2026 Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ostomy Awareness Day, which will be observed on Saturday, October 3, 2026. An ostomy can be a difficult and deeply personal journey, but for many individuals, it is also a second chance at life. Ostomy surgery can provide a path forward for people facing serious illnesses and conditions, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, traumatic injuries because of domestic abuse or military engagement, and any other number of medical challenges. These procedures can be lifesaving and life-restoring, allowing individuals to return to their families, their workplaces, their communities, and the activities they love. Yet too often, people living with an ostomy face misunderstanding, stigma, and unnecessary barriers. Ostomy Awareness Day provides an important opportunity to educate the public, dispel misconceptions, and remind us that an ostomy does not define a person or diminish the quality of a life. In Pennsylvania, approximately 32,500 people are living with an ostomy. They are our neighbors, friends, family members, coworkers, veterans, caregivers, students, and community leaders. Their experiences demonstrate the strength and resilience of people who have overcome significant medical challenges and continue to live full and meaningful lives. I also want to recognize the families, caregivers, physicians, nurses, certified ostomy nurse specialists, and other health care professionals who provide essential care and support to those living with an ostomy. Their compassion and expertise make an enormous difference in helping patients adjust to life after surgery and thrive. This year's Ostomy Awareness Day theme, ``One Community--Stronger Together,'' is a fitting reminder that no one should have to navigate life with an ostomy alone. Awareness, education, peer support, and access to quality care can help ensure that every person who needs an ostomy has the resources and support necessary to live with confidence and dignity. On Ostomy Awareness Day, we celebrate the resilience of the ostomy community and recognize the medical advances and dedicated professionals that have made these life-saving surgeries possible. Most importantly, we affirm that an ostomy is not the end of a person's story--it can be the beginning of a healthier and more hopeful chapter. I am proud to stand with the Pennsylvania ostomy community and with ostomy communities across our Nation. I encourage my colleagues and all Americans to join me in raising awareness, breaking down stigma, and celebrating those whose lives have been saved and restored through ostomy surgery. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing October 3, 2026, as Ostomy Awareness Day. ____________________

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RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 156 (Thursday, October 1, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 156 (Thursday, October 1, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1012] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY ______ HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Thursday, October 1, 2026 Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ostomy Awareness Day, which will be observed on Saturday, October 3, 2026. An ostomy can be a difficult and deeply personal journey, but for many individuals, it is also a second chance at life. Ostomy surgery can provide a path forward for people facing serious illnesses and conditions, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, traumatic injuries because of domestic abuse or military engagement, and any other number of medical challenges. These procedures can be lifesaving and life-restoring, allowing individuals to return to their families, their workplaces, their communities, and the activities they love. Yet too often, people living with an ostomy face misunderstanding, stigma, and unnecessary barriers. Ostomy Awareness Day provides an important opportunity to educate the public, dispel misconceptions, and remind us that an ostomy does not define a person or diminish the quality of a life. In Pennsylvania, approximately 32,500 people are living with an ostomy. They are our neighbors, friends, family members, coworkers, veterans, caregivers, students, and community leaders. Their experiences demonstrate the strength and resilience of people who have overcome significant medical challenges and continue to live full and meaningful lives. I also want to recognize the families, caregivers, physicians, nurses, certified ostomy nurse specialists, and other health care professionals who provide essential care and support to those living with an ostomy. Their compassion and expertise make an enormous difference in helping patients adjust to life after surgery and thrive. This year's Ostomy Awareness Day theme, ``One Community--Stronger Together,'' is a fitting reminder that no one should have to navigate life with an ostomy alone. Awareness, education, peer support, and access to quality care can help ensure that every person who needs an ostomy has the resources and support necessary to live with confidence and dignity. On Ostomy Awareness Day, we celebrate the resilience of the ostomy community and recognize the medical advances and dedicated professionals that have made these life-saving surgeries possible. Most importantly, we affirm that an ostomy is not the end of a person's story--it can be the beginning of a healthier and more hopeful chapter. I am proud to stand with the Pennsylvania ostomy community and with ostomy communities across our Nation. I encourage my colleagues and all Americans to join me in raising awareness, breaking down stigma, and celebrating those whose lives have been saved and restored through ostomy surgery. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing October 3, 2026, as Ostomy Awareness Day. ____________________