A range of support to suit you
If you are diagnosed with bowel cancer there is no right or wrong way to feel, but there is lots of support available to you throughout your diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
You might require support with the emotional impact of your diagnosis, or support with the physical impacts of treatment, either during your treatment or with the longer-term effects that it can cause.
We know living with cancer can be both physically and emotionally challenging, not just for you but for your loved ones too. That’s why at HCA Healthcare UK we have a team of cancer experts who can provide you with the support that is right for you, including help with diet, physical therapy or emotional support. They’ll work with you to put a plan in place that suits your individual needs.
For me, The Wellbeing Space filled something of a void in the immediate aftermath of my treatment finishing and was perfectly timed.
Mark a cancer patient, who attended The Wellbeing Space at The Christie Private Care. A programme centred on supporting patients and their loved ones during and after treatment.
What is it like after treatment for bowel cancer?
Everyone has their own unique experience of cancer but you may find that after treatment you need some time and support to recover. During active treatment there is an intense focus on the treatment itself and a routine of regular hospital visits, it can take some time to readjust and process your emotions.
After treatment, your focus may shift to living a healthy lifestyle and regaining some sense of normality, and that may mean finding a new norm for you. At HCA Healthcare UK, our team of Clinical Nurse Specialists, clinical psychologists, dietitians, physiotherapists and other cancer specialists are available to support you in any way that they can, for as long as you need. They’ll work with you to develop a care plan that fits your personal needs, so that you can get the support that’s right for you at the time that is right for you. Remember, everyone is different and we’re here to support you as an individual.
Let's talk about stomas
For some people who have bowel cancer surgery, they may need to have a temporary or permanent stoma. Having a stoma is a big change to your body and some people can find it difficult to adjust.
We spoke to Angela Wheeler, Gastrointestinal Clinical Nurse Specialist at The Wellington Hospital, about stoma care, the difference between temporary and permanent stomas, the common challenges of living with a stoma and the wealth of support available.
Common concerns after treatment
Reaching the end of his cancer treatment: Paul tells his story
“… a Nest of Angels, that’s what you are.”
More about bowel cancer
Tests and diagnosing bowel cancer
Bowel cancer surgery
