COLORECTAL CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
The group was formed, a year ago, to help
and support people who have been diagnosed with 'bowel cancer' (Colorectal Cancer).
Our main aim is to give as much help and support as we can to them, and to their
carers and relatives.
The group is devoted to this aim and is prepared to gain as much information
as it can on all aspects of bowel cancer, so that our help will be valuable,
especially in relieving sufferers of any anxieties or traumas that they may
have.
"Bottoms Up Everybody"
Objectives:
* Meet on a regular basis in order to discuss bowel cancer
issues including psychological and physical aspects of the condition and to
raise awareness, thereby helping to reduce fear and uncertainty.
* Provide a forum for supporting sufferers from the condition and after effects
of treatment.
* Provide an opportunity for talking to others who are in the same situation
and know from first hand experience of how you feel, at one to one or group
meetings.
* Identify positive and negative experiences and to provide feedback to Professional
Health Care workers in order to maintain or improve the service they provide.
* Organise Social Events. The support group consists of patients, family members,
friends and Health workers. We are able to access a variety of information fact-sheets,
booklets and other support services which may help you to understand and deal
with aspects of your condition; previous, current and future treatments Questions
frequently asked include:
* Why me?
* Is the condition always terminal?
* How will treatment such as Chemotherapy or Radiotherapy make me feel during
and afterwards?
* How will my way of life change?
* Will I be able to work, exercise, engage in normal sexual activities?
* What has actually been done during my operation?
* Will my eating habits need to change?
* What do the Medical Terms used mean?
Some of the questions don't always have an answer, however, it is sometimes useful to share them with others. To realize we all have doubts and fears. We are not a group of medical people, but others like you, who believe that sharing experiences can be helpful to us all. The groups' aims are supported by the Colorectal Surgeons and Nursing Support Team at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, who have representatives at our meetings. Would you like to know more? Even attend our meetings, perhaps undertake an active role?
We understand that not everyone wishes to be involved in group activities, and prefer a more personal approach, their opinions are equally valid and respected.
We meet quarterly at The Quakers Meeting Room, Newcastle,
Staffs. (It is 'cheek by jowl' to The Borough Arms Hotel.) Any questions for
more advice should be addressed to a member of the Group's committee:
David Rowley (Chairman 01782 541771) Email : info@geneva-consultants.com
John Hopkins (Treasurer 01782 722563)
Peter Taylor (Secretary 01270 873304) Email: peter.taylor@spelga.co.uk
CHRISTMAS MEETING
Tuesday 30th November 2004 7.15pm
Dudson Centre
Hope Street
Hanley
(Please note that this is a change from the 1 Dec date mentioned in the previous
minutes.)
If you intend to attend please notify the David Rowley or Peter Taylor by email
or phone.
Minutes of previous meetings
Contributions
We have received a contribution of £50 from Mrs Joan Began, Ohio, USA in remembrance of her late husband Michael who died of cancer. We are very grateful to Mrs Began for her generosity.