Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-09-28

RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY

Healthcare

Context

On 2026-09-28, Representative John Joyce (R-PA-13) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY" in the House.

Full Text

RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 153 (Monday, September 28, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 153 (Monday, September 28, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E992] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY ______ HON. JOHN JOYCE of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Monday, September 28, 2026 Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. 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, it is also a second chance at life. Ostomy surgery can provide a path forward for individuals facing serious illnesses and conditions, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, traumatic injuries, and other medical challenges. These procedures can be lifesaving and allow individuals to return to their families, workplaces, 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 opportunity to educate the public, dispel misconceptions, and remind us that an ostomy does not define a person or diminish their quality of life. In Pennsylvania, approximately 32,500 people are living with an ostomy. Their stories demonstrate the strength of those who continue to live full and meaningful lives after significant medical challenges. Families, caregivers, physicians, nurses, certified ostomy nurse specialists, and other health care professionals also deserve recognition for the care and support they provide to those living with an ostomy. On Ostomy Awareness Day, we celebrate the resilience of the ostomy community and recognize the medical advances and dedicated professionals who make these life-saving surgeries possible. On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, 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 153 (Monday, September 28, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 153 (Monday, September 28, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E992] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING OSTOMY AWARENESS DAY ______ HON. JOHN JOYCE of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Monday, September 28, 2026 Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. 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, it is also a second chance at life. Ostomy surgery can provide a path forward for individuals facing serious illnesses and conditions, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, traumatic injuries, and other medical challenges. These procedures can be lifesaving and allow individuals to return to their families, workplaces, 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 opportunity to educate the public, dispel misconceptions, and remind us that an ostomy does not define a person or diminish their quality of life. In Pennsylvania, approximately 32,500 people are living with an ostomy. Their stories demonstrate the strength of those who continue to live full and meaningful lives after significant medical challenges. Families, caregivers, physicians, nurses, certified ostomy nurse specialists, and other health care professionals also deserve recognition for the care and support they provide to those living with an ostomy. On Ostomy Awareness Day, we celebrate the resilience of the ostomy community and recognize the medical advances and dedicated professionals who make these life-saving surgeries possible. On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing October 3, 2026, as Ostomy Awareness Day. ____________________