We are one of over 50 member organisations within the ia, offering support to people in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire who have undergone removal of their colon.

Formation of an ileostomy or an internal pouch brings not only permanent physical changes to the body but can initially leave a person feeling isolated and different to others. Life after surgery continues as normal and for many can often improve as they are free from the pain and suffering associated with the reasons for surgery being required.

As the local ia group we manage membership in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire through our volunteer committee members headed by our President, Andrew Huang, Consultant Surgeon, Wycombe and Stoke Mandeville Hospitals and Chairman, Phil Horsley; to read more about Phil, click here.

As a member you receive

- the ia journal; a resource, sent quarterly, full of information about leading life with a stoma or internal pouch

- an invitation to local events

- membership to a group of elite people who have overcome difficulty proving that life continues as normal with an ileostomy or internal pouch.

Ever met anyone with an ileostomy or internal pouch? 

You'd never know unless they told you!