Hon. Wanda Thomas Bernard: Honourable senators, I rise today to recognize World Ostomy Day, which was on October 4.

Last year, I paid tribute to the strength and resilience of Canadians living with an ostomy. I also expressed my deep gratitude to my beloved husband, George, whose unwavering support helped me find joy, even in the midst of the struggle.

This year on World Ostomy Day, I participated in the Step Up for Ostomy 2025 campaign. I walked in memory of George, to honour his legacy and to raise awareness and support for Ostomy Canada and the thousands of lives it touches.

Today, honourable colleagues, I wish to draw your attention to summer camps designed for children and adolescents living with ostomies, such as Ostomy Canada Youth Camp, Camp Brigadoon and Camp Horizon. These programs provide connection, empowerment, critical hope and healing. Through inclusive activities, peer mentorship, education and specialized recreational, medical and nutritional support, they create safe and transformative spaces.

Organizations such as Ostomy Canada Society and Ostomy Halifax offer financial assistance and full sponsorships to ensure they are accessible to all. These camps help young people build confidence, community and lifelong memories.

Honourable colleagues, I now want to share a few words from campers and parents whose lives were changed by their experiences at one of the camps. I’ll start with the youth: “It’s nice to be with people who understand what it’s like to have an ostomy,” one person said.

Another person said, “Camp helped me realize I’m not alone . . . now I have friends for life.”

And this is a third voice: “I used to hide my ostomy. Now I feel proud of who I am.”

And here are some voices of parents:

Camp was a real eye-opener for my daughter. . . . She didn’t know there were others with the same condition she has.

A second parent shared:

This opportunity meant so much to my daughter. . . . It was truly heartwarming to see her smiling, laughing, and simply enjoying being a kid.

Honourable senators, please join me in thanking the many Canadians who step up for ostomy by donating their time, ideas and resources to help children and youth living with ostomies feel proud of who they are and simply enjoy being a kid. Thank you.

Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.