Football fan gives emergency stoma kits to venues
BBCA man who is calling for emergency stoma packs to be made available in public toilets has been handing out kits to venues and football clubs.
Andrew Parker, from West Allotment, North Tyneside, said he was "devastated" when he first learned he would need a stoma following cancer surgery.
But the Bradford City supporter said the reality had been very different and he continues to live life "to the full".
His experience inspired him to start leaving emergency stoma kits in public venues, particularly football grounds he visits as an away supporter including Lincoln City, Leyton Orient, Milton Keynes and AFC Wimbledon.
"I was probably more upset about the thought of having a stoma than being told I had cancer," Parker said.
"I thought it would change my life and make things impossible."
However, he said he things turned out different and he leads a full life.
"I go to the football, I go out for a couple of drinks - I do everything I've always wanted to do."
Using items that have proved surplus to requirements, each kit contains three smaller packs with sterile wipes, a stoma pouch, disposal bags and barrier products - enough for what he describes as "running repairs" if someone is caught without supplies.
On a day travelling around Tyneside, Parker delivered packs to gyms, pubs and a music venue, with gym owner James Swan calling the idea "simple but brilliant".
At the Glasshouse in Gateshead, manager Colleen Hamilton said the initiative supports accessibility.
"We really love to see barriers being taken down for access to live venues," she said.
Parker said he hoped in the future major retailers will stock certified emergency packs nationwide.
"If that happens," he said, "there won't be a problem left for me to solve."
