On Oct. 6, the Sandhills Ostomy Association, the United Ostomy Associations of America, the Canadian Ostomy Association, the International Ostomy Association and Ostomy Associations in all countries will celebrate World Ostomy Day.

"As people who have or will have bowel or urinary diversion surgery, we are committed to improve the quality of life of an ostomate," says a spokesman.

"Our associations are campaigning to educate and enhance public awareness of the challenges faced by ostomy patients. Please contact Gloria Tanner, president of the Sandhills Ostomy Association, for information regarding our local Affiliated Support Group."

The Sandhills Ostomy Support Group meets the first Sunday of every month, from October through May, at 3 p.m., on the first floor of the Moore Regional Hospital Conference Center.