Episode resources:

United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA)

Colorectal Cancer Alliance

Colon Cancer Coalition

About the Speakers:

Daniel “Dry Dock” Shockley is a retired Navy veteran who served in Operation Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. In 2012, at age 51, he was diagnosed with attenuated Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (AFAP) following his first colonoscopy, despite being asymptomatic and having no family history. He underwent a successful total proctocolectomy with a permanent ileostomy immediately after receiving his DNA germline test results.

Since his diagnosis, Daniel has served as an ostomy ambassador for both the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) and involved with the WOCN® Society in supporting ostomy patient education and advocacy. Drawing on his military experience, he embraces challenges with a mindset of adaptability, resilience, and positivity. Over the past 12 years, he has collaborated with ostomy organizations and patients nationally and internationally, advocating for awareness and reducing stigma associated with ostomies. His efforts include securing Ostomy Awareness Day proclamations and resolutions from local legislative members. His personal mantra: Always Forge Ahead with a Purpose!

Joyce Moss, ADN, BSN, MNM, MSc Wound Healing & Tissue Repair, RN, CWS, CWCN, CWON, is an accomplished wound and ostomy care nurse with over 30 years of experience, including expertise in compression management for edema/lymphedema, pressure injury prevention and treatment, and incontinence management. She has coordinated care across outpatient and inpatient settings and led the development of a wound and ostomy clinic that improved patient access and outcomes.

An exceptional educator, Joyce has trained and mentored nurses, consulted with medical and surgical residents, and delivered lectures and in-services. She provides guidance and support to ostomates and their families, organizes patient education events, and authors support group newsletters. Joyce’s work emphasizes both clinical excellence and compassionate patient-centered care.

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant.