Message from the Outgoing NSWOCC President

Reflecting on Progress, Embracing the Future

Abstract

This past year has marked a significant transition for Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC). This year is also a year of significant transition for myself as well, as I conclude my term as President after a decade of leadership and activity within the association. This past year has been characterized by growth of the association, innovation, and organizational transformation, positioning NSWOCC for continued impact in wound, ostomy, and continence into the future.

Since I began as NSWOCC Treasurer a decade ago, NSWOCC has achieved multiple milestones, the largest being the rebranding from the Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy (CAET) to NSWOCC, led by CEO Catherine Harley. This name reflects the expanded tri-specialty role and national leadership of the organization. The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute has also continued to experience significant growth under Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, delivering innovative education programs, including the recent Pharmacist, Wound, Ostomy and Continence and Nurse Continence Advisor programs. The association’s academic publication under Editor-in-Chief Lina Martins also transitioned from The NSWOC Advance to the Canadian Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence, enhancing its scholarly focus and academic impact. NSWOCC continues to advance clinical excellence through the development of best practice recommendations and a planned update to our NSWOC Standards of Practice.

Membership growth continues to be significant, with the association now exceeding 1,600 members and 600 Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence. In recognition of leadership and excellence within the specialty, NSWOCC launched the Fellowship in Nursing Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (FNSWOC) at the 2025 conference, with the first cohort anticipated at the upcoming 2026 conference. This initiative highlights the association’s commitment to professional recognition and leadership development.

The WCET®–NSWOCC® 2026 Joint Congress in Vancouver represents another major milestone for our association. In collaboration with the World Council of Enterostomal Therapists, this event provides opportunities for knowledge exchange, global networking, and showcasing Canadian innovation in wound, ostomy, and continence care. The congress reflects NSWOCC’s growing international presence and leadership within the specialty.

This past year, NSWOCC has welcomed new leadership roles, including a Chief Operating Officer, Chief Research Officer, Program Coordinator for the Institute, and Financial Administrator. Additionally, long-serving CEO Catherine Harley will retire in May 2026 following more than two decades of leadership, with Axelle Pellerin transitioning to the role of Chief Executive Officer upon Cathy’s retirement.

As I transition to the role of Past President, leadership will pass to incoming President Bev Smith. I look forward to continuing to see the success of the association from a different perspective in the years to come, while continuing to support the association in new ways. With a strengthened leadership team, expanding membership, and enhanced global engagement, NSWOCC is well positioned for sustained growth and impact. Thank you to all those who have supported me throughout my NSWOCC journey and thank you to our members for all you do to support those living with wound, ostomy and continence needs. I wish you all the very best.

Corey Heerschap, PhD, MScCH, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC
President, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) Président, Infirmières spécialisées en plaies, stomies et continence Canada (ISPSCC)