JHC Ostomy Awareness 2026: Celebrating Life with Stoma
Living with a stoma can bring significant changes and challenges, but it never defines who a person is or what they can achieve.
This spirit of resilience and hope came alive during JHC's inaugural Ostomy Awareness campaign, held from 28 September to 09 October 2026.
Organised by the Stoma Rehabilitation Team with support from the Division of Colorectal Surgery and sponsors Ms Clarice Wee, Deputy Director of Nursing, Nursing Administration and Clin Asst Prof Christopher Keh, Head, Division of Colorectal Surgery, the event created a welcoming space for patients, caregivers, healthcare staff, and the public to learn, connect, and break down long-held stigmas.
At the heart of the celebration was the inspiring “Design with Dignity” stoma bag cover design competition, which drew 40 heartfelt entries from 29 passionate participants - ranging from healthcare professionals and their families to members of the public.
The designs reflected themes of hope, resilience, self-acceptance and companionship. Sunshine, flowers and butterflies symbolised optimism and new beginnings, while waves and journey-inspired imagery represented perseverance. Messages such as “I am more than my stoma” and “We walk with you” reinforced the importance of individuality, confidence and support.
Entries were assessed by a five-member judging panel comprising a doctor, nurses and a stoma patient. The criteria included creativity and originality (40%), patient-centredness and compassion (30%), and the use of NUHS colours and visual appeal (30%), with consideration given to the wearer's perspective.
Three winning designs stood out for their meaningful messages:
First Prize: “Just Another Part of Me” by Nurse Clinician Lim Su Ying Jasmine, Nursing Administration
NC Jasmine's design celebrates the interests and experiences that make each person unique, reminding everyone that a stoma is only a single chapter in a person's vibrant life story.
Second Prize: “Everyday Joy” by Naomi, a member of the public
Full of warmth and playfulness, Naomi's design transforms a stoma bag cover into a cheerful personal accessory, celebrating individuality and the joy found in everyday moments.
Third Prize: “We Walk With You” by Lim Chee Meng, Senior Executive Assistant, Group Medical Records Office
Chee Meng's design conveys reassurance and solidarity, highlighting the importance of companionship and support from healthcare teams throughout a person's stoma journey.
Together, the winning designs captured three simple yet meaningful messages: “I am still me”, “I can find joy” and “I am supported”. The top three winners received $300, $200 and $100 worth of cash vouchers, respectively, while all participants received a token of appreciation in recognition of their creativity, efforts and participation.
Beyond the educational displays and competition, the involvement of patients, families and the wider community was especially heartening, reinforcing that support for people living with a stoma extends beyond clinical care to include understanding and acceptance from those around them.
As JHC's first Ostomy Awareness initiative, this milestone marks a meaningful step toward greater understanding and acceptance - reminding us that a stoma never defines a person, and life with one can be lived with confidence, dignity, and joy. Building on this momentum, the team hopes to foster ongoing conversations and establish a support group, giving our patients a stronger collective voice.
