The UOA Board of Directors has made the difficult decision to cease operations of the United Ostomy Association, Inc. as of September 30, 2005. This decision was reached after months of research, evaluation and consideration of numerous alternatives. Ultimately, dissolving the UOA was realized as the only viable option.

UOA was founded to help improve the quality of life for people with intestinal or urinary diversions. Initial objectives were to improve medical and nursing care and ostomy products and to provide mutual support. In many significant ways, all of these goals have been achieved and we can be proud of our success. We have helped hundreds of thousands through the UOA Visiting Program, local chapters/satellites, http://www.uoa.org and the UOA National Conference. We should all be pleased with what UOA has accomplished since its inception in 1962.

Much has changed in 43 years: advances in medical science, ostomy supplies and electronic communication have created less need for our programs and services. A declining membership base, inadequate financial support and increasing operating costs have also plagued our organization for several years.

Our complete range of support, programs and services will be offered through the national office until it closes on September 30, 2005. Please continue to support the 2005 UOA Youth Rally and come celebrate 43 years of success with us at the last UOA National Conference in Anaheim, CA, this August 3-6. The final issue of the Ostomy Quarterly magazine will be mailed this October.

We hope that you will continue to work with your local support group to help future ostomates in your community. Thank you for your support these past years.

Sincerely,

The UOA Board of Directors