A charity founder who was named as a Selby District Shining Star has shared her story to give others hope.
Jackie Butterworth of Second Chance Ostomy Yorkshire set up the charity to help people like her who are living with stomas, or awaiting them. The mother, who was given the silver award in the volunteer of the year category, had her colon removed after suffering with Ulcerative Colitis. She set up the charity in 2019 after joining a support group and seeing the benefits for herself. “I know the power of a good support network,” Jackie said. “Mine has helped transform my life. Now I want to give back and help others. That’s why I set up my charity, Second Chance Ostomy Yorkshire.” The charity is made up of her and four other trustees, including one who is a qualified stoma nurse. She added: “So many people come out of hospital, especially now in this socially distanced world, with no support and no one to turn to. We aim to change all that. We want to create a safe space where people can talk, ask questions, make friendships and access advice - all while raising stoma awareness. “I wasted years feeling ashamed of my stoma and thinking no-one else would understand. I don’t want anyone else to suffer like that. I struggled, both physically and mentally.” Jackie runs a monthly online support group and is now running face-to-face groups. “If anyone would have said to me two years ago that I’d now be the founder and chair of my own charity, I’d have laughed, actually, I’d have cried,” the charity founder said. “I was so low, suffering through pain, leaks and a marriage break-up. “It was only through the support of others that I’m now able to smile again and give something back.” For more information, visit: https://www.second chance-ostomyyorkshire.org
Jackie Butterworth pictured far right at the awards ceremony. (16-09-60 SU)
