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Linz Kemble: Linz’s Step Up Ostomy Fundraising Page!

Story

As many of you know, I was diagnosed with a very rare genetic condition called (Sessile) Serrated Polyposis Syndrome a few years ago (thankfully so far NO other family members appear to have it). It takes ONE polyp to turn into colon cancer, and I had 100s.. “innumerable” infact.. If it weren’t for our father having Stage IV colon cancer, I probably wouldn’t have found out until it was too late, he very likely saved my life. I was given the choice of 100% chance of cancer or having a total proctectomy and colectomy and having an ileostomy for the rest of my life (I’ll give you a minute to do a bunch of googling)…. … … .. .. .

First they tried removing 90% of my colon and managing the last 10%, but within 2 months 26 new polyps had grown back and 17 were pre cancerous… so the surgery had to happen and May 5, 2022 it did. It’s been a hard road… I struggle with chronic dehydration, absorbing foods, medications, nutrients etc regularly and many other related complications and felt so alone as a young 30s single (at the time) woman. Between the most solid group of friends and family I could ask for, and the incredible Calgary / Canadian Ostomy Society I have come back stronger and better than ever, and want to help bring awareness and support other people with ostomies and their journeys… I’m more confident in my body and self than I’ve ever been, even with “Squirt” hanging off of me haha.. I’ve found the love of my life that accepts me and “Squirt” (I named my ileostomy) and is so understanding and supportive of what I deal with..

The ostomy nursing teams, the volunteers that visit and call to check in on you, the Facebook groups, research teams, camps for kids, they’re all incredible and such an amazing cause!! I’d like to support this financially and in person.

People get ostomies for SO many reasons, and there’s more people from infancy to old age that need them than you would ever realize, and several different kinds and it’s an amazing cause that doesn’t get much awareness or understanding… I want to be apart of that change… If you feel so compelled, please donate or let me know if you’d like to join me to walk tomorrow!!! I’m sorry for the late notice, I’ve been ill, and didn’t know if I’d be up for it!

Ostomy Canada is gearing up for its 10th Step Up for Ostomy Campaign this year! Come join us on September 16, 2023, in Calgary, towns, parks, trails, and venues across Canada and show your support for those living with an ostomy, their friends and family. On that day we will walk, run, bike, hike, or whatever you like. Let’s all Step Up for Ostomy, to raise awareness, eliminate stigma and raise funds to help enhance Ostomy Canada Programs!

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