In these days where extra cautions for security are being taken worldwide, it would be wise for travelling ostomates to do advance planning in order to avoid possible problems. Some suggestions follow:
� Precut all pouches at home so scissors are not necessary in your carry-on luggage.
Pack ostomy supplies in at least two places (carry-on and checked luggage).
� Take extra supplies in case you are stranded where supplies may not be available.
� A letter from your physician stating your need for ostomy supplies might be helpful - also, a statement requesting a private area be used in case an extended search is needed.
� If travelling to a foreign country, it's a good idea to have critical ostomy information written in that country's language. One of the 70 member associations of the International Ostomy Association (IOA) may be of help with this translation as well as with locating supplies while visiting their country. Check the IOA website at http://www.ostomyinternational.org/.
� The book Yes We Can, available through UOA, has many helpful hints and advice for travelling. It also has a dictionary of ostomy terms translated in several languages. In addition, there is important contact information for resources worldwide as well as a wallet card statement written in eleven languages that asks for privacy if a search is to be conducted.
Via Chippewa Valley Rosebud Review,
Vancouver Ostomy Highlife
and Regina Ostomy News, Mar/Apr 2002 |
