Welcome to the Ostomy Community of Greater Richmond

A Proud Chapter Branch of the United Ostomy Association of America

Providing support for those adjusting to life with an ostomy

About Us

As a proud chapter of the United Ostomy Association of America, we have been serving the greater Richmond area for over two decades. We provide essential community services and care resources to support ostomates in their journey.

Our community aims to raise awareness and offer support for new or soon-to-be ostomates and their allies. We strive to foster connections through support networks, speaking engagements, social media, and community programs.

Our mission is to be a valuable resource hub for local ostomates and their allies, addressing the needs of individuals in the greater Richmond area and beyond. Our dedicated leaders collaborate closely with healthcare providers, including doctors, wound and ostomy care nurses, and medical suppliers, ensuring our members have access to the necessary healthcare resources.

Beyond healthcare, we offer community support, social engagements, and volunteer opportunities to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment. Together, we make a difference every day.

Our Services

Support Meetings

Join us for our monthly support meetings every third Wednesday at 7pm, held in the Williamsburg Room at Henrico's Doctor's Hospital, located at 1602 Skipwith Rd, Richmond, VA 23229. It's a welcoming space to connect, share experiences, and find support among fellow ostomates.

Social Events

Our events, ranging from casual meetups to special outings, offer opportunities to form friendships and connect with Ostomates from diverse backgrounds. Our gatherings create a welcoming environment where individuals can interact, share experiences, and support each other on their journeys.

Medical Supplies

Donate or retrieve medical supplies through our local supply closet, serving both the local and global community. Unused supplies are sent to Kenny’s Closet, VCU or Friends of Ostomates, a global initiative supporting Ostomates worldwide.

Ostomate Chat

Are you or someone you know new to the Ostomate world? Interested in meeting or speaking with a local Ostomate? Fill out our contact form to request more information, and we’ll try to match you with one of our Ostomate mentors based on your age range and surgery type.

Upcoming Events

  • Beth with Coloplast

    March 19th @ 7- 8 PM

    Join our March group to meet Beth, our local Richmond Coloplast representative, and learn more about Coloplast products and services!

  • Friends of Ostomates Worldwide

    April 16th @ 7-8 PM

    Join virtually or in-person to meet Mackenzie and hear about FOW global initiative to supply ostomates around the world with ostomy supplies and educational resources.

  • May Guest Speaker

    May 21 @ 7:00PM - 8:00PM

    TBD - Check back soon!

Volunteers Welcome

Interested in volunteering or getting involved in any of our events? Send us an email at rvaostomates@gmail.com to learn more.

What people are saying

  • "The RVA Ostomy group has been lifesaver! Ever since this happened, I feel like I've been wandering lost in Harry Potter's dark forest without a way out or a path. Thank you all for showing me the path!"

    Kathy, Caregiver 

  • "I had an emergency surgery that didn't give me much time to prepare for this journey. I reached out to the group after to learn others experiences. I met the president of RVA Ostomy for coffee and she was such a blessing when I was in a panicked state. I cannot thank the group enough, they really made such a difference!"

    New Ostomate

  • "I had extra supplies after my reversal surgery and wanted them to be helpful for someone else. The RVA Ostomy group was so helpful in arranging a pick up by coming to me!"

    Supply Donator

  • "The RVA Ostomates were able to connect me with a WOCN, Vilma who did an absolutely wonderful job helping me with my son's bag change. VCU's ostomy clinic was knowledgeable, efficient and caring"

    Caregiver

Contact Us

Are you or someone you know new to the ostomate world? Interested in speaking or meeting with a local ostomate? We're here to help!

Send us a message, and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Let's connect and support each other on this journey.