Living with Colorectal Cancer

Let Fight CRC help you adjust to life as a survivor or caregiver following a colorectal cancer diagnosis.

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“New normal” is a phrase often used by cancer survivors. Because of significant life changes, many survivors struggle to adjust back to their pre-cancer self. The differences may be slight to non-survivors, but could be enough to affect the survivor’s sense of self.

Fight CRC offers information and resources to support survivors and caregivers to adjust to their “new normal.” From tips on diet and nutrition, to what to expect after treatment, Fight CRC is here to support you from diagnosis to survivorship.

Colorectal Cancer and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Fight CRC is keeping survivors and their families updated on the latest information and expert resources about the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Diet and Nutrition

Diet and nutrition are trending topics among people living with colorectal cancer. There are guides and recommendations for those that are post-colorectal cancer surgery, as well as survivors who have no evidence of disease, or “NED.” Learn about how what you eat could affect cancer side effects, cancer recurrence risk, and more.

Paying for Treatment

Paying for cancer treatment is expensive. Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) help patients who have difficulty paying for prescription medications. State governments, charitable organizations, and drug companies offer PAP programs that provide discounted or free medications to people who financially and medically qualify; some also help file appeals to insurance companies who deny coverage for certain medications. Learn more about PAP programs and get tips on how to avoid financial toxicity.

Post-Treatment

Once you have completed treatment, your doctor will want to continue seeing you for follow-up surveillance and care. It’s important to stay up to date with your post-treatment care for years following your cancer diagnosis.

Survivorship

During and after treatment, and during treatment breaks, life goes on. You still need to check in with your primary care provider, your dentist, and any other medical professionals involved with your health. Survivorship care plans can give you a structure to help you take care of your whole self.

For Friends and Family

Friends, family, and caregivers of colorectal cancer patients need support. Caring for a loved one can be challenging: physically, mentally, and emotionally. From the time of initial diagnosis to addressing the needs of the patient through the cancer experience, the continual uncertainty that comes with a cancer diagnosis can be stressful – we’re here to help.