Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-10-01

RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY

HealthcareTaxesDefenseTradeVeterans

Context

On 2026-10-01, Representative Christopher H. Smith (R-NJ-4) 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 E1008] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY ______ HON. CHRISTOPHER H. SMITH of new jersey in the house of representatives Thursday, October 1, 2026 Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ostomy Day, which will be observed on Saturday, October 3, 2026. For the last several years the first Saturday of every October has been recognized as Ostomy Awareness Day by many who have undergone ostomy surgery as well as their caregivers and families. Ostomy surgery can provide a path forward for people facing serious illnesses and conditions, including Spina Bifida, colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, traumatic injuries because of domestic abuse or military engagement, and any other number of medical challenges. While a drastic and often disruptive surgery, the procedure can be lifesaving and life-enhancing, 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 and unnecessary barriers to treatment. As far back as 1984, President Ronald Reagan recognized the benefits of increasing awareness when he designated August 1984 as national Ostomy Awareness Month. The awareness campaign is now carried forward annually with organizations such as the United Ostomy Associations of America and the International Ostomy Association, as well as members of the Spina Bifida community, highlighting the day as 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 New Jersey, approximately 23,000 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. Ostomy Awareness Day also recognizes the families, caregivers, physicians, nurses and 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 note the resilience of the ostomy community and recognize the dedicated professionals and medical advances that have made these life-saving surgeries possible. Most importantly, we affirm that an ostomy is not the end of a person's story--but, with education, awareness, and proper continued care, can be the beginning of a healthier and more hopeful chapter. ____________________

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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 E1008] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY ______ HON. CHRISTOPHER H. SMITH of new jersey in the house of representatives Thursday, October 1, 2026 Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ostomy Day, which will be observed on Saturday, October 3, 2026. For the last several years the first Saturday of every October has been recognized as Ostomy Awareness Day by many who have undergone ostomy surgery as well as their caregivers and families. Ostomy surgery can provide a path forward for people facing serious illnesses and conditions, including Spina Bifida, colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, traumatic injuries because of domestic abuse or military engagement, and any other number of medical challenges. While a drastic and often disruptive surgery, the procedure can be lifesaving and life-enhancing, 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 and unnecessary barriers to treatment. As far back as 1984, President Ronald Reagan recognized the benefits of increasing awareness when he designated August 1984 as national Ostomy Awareness Month. The awareness campaign is now carried forward annually with organizations such as the United Ostomy Associations of America and the International Ostomy Association, as well as members of the Spina Bifida community, highlighting the day as 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 New Jersey, approximately 23,000 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. Ostomy Awareness Day also recognizes the families, caregivers, physicians, nurses and 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 note the resilience of the ostomy community and recognize the dedicated professionals and medical advances that have made these life-saving surgeries possible. Most importantly, we affirm that an ostomy is not the end of a person's story--but, with education, awareness, and proper continued care, can be the beginning of a healthier and more hopeful chapter. ____________________