There are many groups out there, with different features – like groups for ostomates who want to meet others, or ostomates dealing with specific medical conditions, etc. Some are “chatty,” others encourage members to stick to strictly ostomy-related posts. Based solely on my own subjective criteria, these are the ones I can personally recommend. But there’s something for everyone out there. Don’t hesitate to try on a few for size.
Ostomyland is one private Facebook group where I’ve found a happy home. It’s very well administered. There are clear rules on what is and is not allowed, and they nip any problems in the bud before they can take on a life of their own. All posts are directly related to ostomies. At last count, there were over 6,000 members from around the world. The members are friendly and well informed. And it’s a place where everyone can feel safe and welcomed.
Ostomy Canada Society is another Facebook group I belong to. It’s a private, well administered group where all posts relate to ostomies and the members are polite and welcoming. Obviously, most members are Canadian, but you don’t have to be.
Colostomy UK Suport Group is a large private group (over 9,000 members) administered by the Colostomy UK charitable organization. Again, this is a private, friendly, and informative group. Most members are from the UK but you don’t have to be.
Ostomy 2-1-1 is a Facebook group I don’t belong to myself, but I’ve heard only good things about it.
I wrote a post about what to look for in an online ostomy support group. You can read it here.