It was a chance for people to discuss all aspects of their care and for the team from United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust (ULHT) to determine if there are any areas of support they can build on and improve.
Patients with a stoma have a small opening in the stomach which diverts one end of the colon into a colostomy bag to collect stools.
Delegates at the event were split into three groups to examine the quality of service they receive during hospital admission, outpatient appointments and later on when being discharged back into the community.
Clinical Specialist Nurse, Sally Nightingale said it was the first time her team had organised an event in this format.
“Getting patient feedback is vital because ultimately it helps us to make changes and improve the services we provide,” said Sally.
“We don’t just get the opinions of the patients, we also sit and listen to what the relatives have to say. Often they can get a bit forgotten about, so it’s a good opportunity to let them air their views and give us any feedback they may have.”
Pilgrim hospital’s colorectal and stoma care team treat patients with a variety of bowel disorders including cancer of the colon, rectum and anus and inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohns and colitis.
Lesley Bainbridge (65), had to have a colostomy bag fitted on Boxing Day last year, just days before being diagnosed with breast cancer. She said meeting other patients who are in similar circumstances was a great help.
“I think these events are great, because you meet people who are in the same boat as you,” she said.
“I was very worried and kept thinking ‘why me’. I’ve turned down attendance at two weddings recently because of what people might think.
“Talking to other people with similar problems allows you to share advice and what works for someone else, may well work for you too. I’d definitely attend one of these again.”