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How to Help Others with Colon Cancer

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)

Polyps that develop on the lining of the colon may progress into cancer. These cancerous polyps or tumors must be removed through surgery as part of treatment. The invasive treatment coupled with the emotional distress of the cancer diagnosis means that people with colon cancer will need help in some form from someone. Whether you have experienced colon cancer yourself or not, you may want to help others who have been diagnosed.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Computer with Internet access
  1. Step 1

    Do good, feel good! Many people feel better when they are helping others. This can even be an important part of your own treatment for colon cancer. If you have been diagnosed with colon cancer, it may help you heal emotionally to help others.

  2. Step 2

    Be prepared to be open. If you want to help others with colon cancer, you must be open about your own situation. If you are shy or embarrassed about your cancer, you must work through these issues. Be strong for others.

  3. Step 3

    Become an advocate. The Colorectal Cancer Coalition (C3) works at the grassroots level on behalf of colon cancer patients (see Resources below). Join them as a One-Minute Advocate, writing letters and emails to your representatives.

  4. Step 4

    Donate money or volunteer your time. Federal employees can donate through human resources, and many private companies offer gift-matching. Look for ways to increase your donation so it doesn't financially burden you. If you can't afford to give money, consider volunteering. Visiting terminal patients in the hospital is a fine way to help both them and their family.

  5. Step 5

    Use your resources to make a difference. Whether you are a whiz at public relations, a crafty numbers cruncher or a famed chef, you can always do something to contribute to a local organization. See what services are needed and then offer to help.

Tips & Warnings
  • Turn your cancer into something positive. Ask your doctor if he or she knows of local cancer awareness groups where you can volunteer your time.
  • People with cancer have the right to privacy. Do not publicize someone else's sickness without his or her permission.
  • Being diagnosed with cancer is hard on the psyche. Make sure you are ready mentally and emotionally before you start helping others. If you start too soon, dealing with people who have the same disease may be too much for you.
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