BCIR Advocate Living with the Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir 
If you have a continent ostomy, or are thinking about having a continent ostomy type surgery, you should take a look at the Quality Life Association (QLA) and consider joining the QLA community. I have been a member for a few years now and have found the community quite helpful with a number of resources to help get answers to my questions and also to connect with others with an ostomy.
The Quality Life Association (QLA) is a volunteer based non-profit group committed to meeting the needs of individuals who have a Continent Ostomy, or are considering an intestinal diversion. This group was founded in 1985 by continent intestinal reservoir patients of Dr. William O. Barnett, with the goal of serving as a network of communication. To aid in this endeavor, our members receive a quarterly newsletter, Horizons, with pertinent ostomy news. In addition, an annual educational conference is held in an environment of sharing and learning.
The website http://www.qla-ostomy.org/ is very informative with valuable information such as ostomy options, ostomy care & education, as well as patient referrals.
If you’re considering the Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir (BCIR), Kock, ileoanal J-Pouch, or continent urostomy surgery then the QLA is good place to start your research.
The QLA also has an annual conference where folks can meet up to ask questions, talk about their experiences, and also have some fun. The conference includes a well-planned and insightful agenda of speakers and activities.
The QLA conference is meant as a way for Continent Ostomates and their families and friends to meet in an environment in which they can be open about their concerns and experiences.
If you’re interested in the conference, read more HERE: If you do plan to come, please make sure to find me and say hello, as I will be giving a presentation about the BCIR Advocate.
