Associates at the Stuarts Draft Plant recently heard the inspiring story of one woman's triumph over cancer: what it is like to live with an ostomy; and the importance of dependable products for ostomy management. You might expect a somber reaction from those hearing about such serious subjects, but, for the most part, the audience was roaring with laughter. That's because the special guest and Hollister customer, is (among other things) a stand-up comic, whose sense of humor has gotten her through life's various challenges.
Brenda Elsagher became an ostimate at 39, after being diagnosed with colon cancer. Married with two children, she was understandably devastated when she learned she had a life-threatening illness. Ostomy surgery was not something she looked forward to, but, she had a lot to live for and opted for the lifesaving operation. Adjusting to her altered body presented challenges, as did the daily managment of her ostomy. She used humor to get through it all because, to her, losing her sense of humor would be like losing the battle.
Brenda told many poignant stories to her Stuarts Draft audience, along with many hilarious anecdotes. She stressed the importance of regular medical check-ups, including colonoscopies, and told them how she and every Hollister customer needs products they can depend on. It gave our Associates the opportunity to reflect on the fact that their daily efforts in the production of Hollister Ostomy Products make a real difference in the lives of our customers.
In addition to being a wife, mother, and stand-up comic, Brenda is a successful business owner and author of the book, "If the Battle is Over, Why Am I Still in Uniform?" Her engaging style and hilarious delivery have inspired audiences all across the country, including our Associates, each of whom received an autographed copy of Brenda's book.
Following her presentation, C.B. Botkin said, "If there was any doubt before, after listening to Brenda, everybody here ought to take their jobs very seriously." Response was overwhelmingly positive, and another Associate, Debbie Reece, commented on Brenda's speech, "I was a nurse's aide before coming to Hollister and I worked with geriatric ostomy patients. It brought home to me, again, just how important our products are."
During her visit, Brenda toured the plant and had the opportunity to speak with many Associates. She thanked each one personally for their effortrs in producing quality products that make her life, and the lives of countless others, more dignified and manageable. She was amazed at the labor intensity of the manufacturing process, including the number of inspections occurring at each step.
Bill Doran, Plant Manager, reflecting on Brenda's visit, said, "We ship 55 million products from this facility each year. The challenge and desire is that each of us makes a quality product that will enhance the lives of our customers, and do that 55 million times."
Brenda's visit was both inspring and motivational, and to her appreciative audience, it drove home the fact that "together we make a difference."
