Your Colon and Rectal Cancer Journey: A Guide
This guide will help inform and empower you during your treatment for colon and/or rectal cancer. Download the entire PDF file, or choose the chapters that most interest you. This information isn’t meant to replace the attention and advice from your medical team so be sure to bring up any questions with them. We’re here to help.
Chapters
- Organizing Your Care (PDF) — Learn how to use this guide, who’s on your care team, your rights as a patient and medication safety tips.
- Understanding Your Diagnosis (PDF) — To understand more, read pages 1-25 of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for colon cancer or rectal cancer. These are excellent resources to learn about the basics of cancer as well as general treatment planning and options.
- Resources (PDF) — Access recommended websites, groups and books for you and your family.
- Surgery and Post Surgery (PDF) — Learn about different colon and rectal surgeries, how to prepare and what to do to promote healing.
- Sex, Intimacy and Fertility (PDF) — Find out how adaptation and communication can help you navigate sexual and reproductive concerns before and after treatment.
- Medical Oncology (PDF) — Powerful drugs, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, help treat colon and rectal cancer. Discover the options and possible side effects.
- Radiation Therapy (PDF) — If radiation is part of your care plan, learn the types, process and how to prepare.
- Clinical Trials (PDF) — Is participation in a clinical trial right for you? Consider the pros and cons.
- Integrative Medicine (PDF) — Learn how complementary therapies, such as massage and acupuncture, engage the mind, body and spirit to help you heal.
- Coping and Living with Cancer (PDF) — Live fully during your treatment by engaging and accepting support, managing emotions and practicing self-care.
- Survivorship and Wellness (PDF) — Use nutrition, exercise, work balance and other healthy habits to maximize your well-being throughout treatment and survivorship.
- Healthcare Finances (PDF) — Decrease stress by organizing money management and knowing your options.