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Colorectal Cancer: Newly Diagnosed: Emotional Well Being (Stages 2, 3 and 4)

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Experience shows that there is nothing quite like speaking with another person who is going through the same thing that you are. There are a variety of alternatives for finding such a person.

  • Look for a cancer buddy - another person with colorectal cancer. Only another person who has just been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or who has been there really knows what you feel. The person doesn't have to be nearby. You can make contact on the telephone or over the internet.
    • You can make contact with such a person through the Colon Cancer Alliance' by calling 877.422.2030.
    • You can also make connections through your specialist, a social worker or a nurse at your doctor's office.
  • This is a good time to start exploring a support group or self help group of other people with colorectal cancer.
    • A support group is a group of people with a similar situation, led by a professional. A self help group is the same except members run the group.
    • In addition to emotional support, members learn valuable practical information.
    • There are all kinds of support groups. You can participate in a support group in person, on the telephone and on the internet. You can generally remain anonymous if that is your preference.
    • For a list of colorectal cancer support groups, click here.
    • If there is no group that works for you, consider starting your own. (An excellent description of how to start your own group, including tips for first meetings and how to make a group work, is located at: www.selfhelp.on.ca/start.html offsite link)

NOTE If you have children aged 6 -- 13, Camp Kesem is a college student run summer camp for children with a parent who has (or has had) cancer. The camps are in various locations around the country. The camps offer a one week sleep away. To learn more, see:www.CampKesem.org offsite link


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