Colorectal cancer survivors
We're here to help
Survivorship is a success, but it’s also a responsibility. We are your allies, ready to share the latest information about being a colon cancer or rectal cancer survivor and taking steps to stay cancer-free and healthy.
What comes next?
After treatment has completed, colorectal cancer survivors may face physical, emotional, and social issues.
While you may be relived to have your treatment completed, adjusting to your "new normal" can take some time. We have useful resources that can help during this phase of recovery.
Recovery after treatment: cancer rehabilitation
Doctors sometimes recommend cancer rehabilitation to help their patients return to their regular activities of daily living. These programs aim to restore and maintain your physical and emotional well-being.
Participating in cancer rehabilitation may help patients experience a faster and more complete recovery.
Survivor’s guilt
Survivor’s guilt can range from questions of “Why me?” and “Why did I survive?” to depression and even suicidal thoughts.
Some may try to make sense of why they survived, and others didn’t, while some people may feel guilty about the changes their families are going through.
Returning to exercise and activity
Exercise is generally safe and beneficial after treatment for colorectal cancer. In fact, studies have shown that exercise is effective at reducing certain side effects from treatment.
Always talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Anxiety about cancer coming back
After treatment completes, a common response to the stress of a cancer diagnosis is to worry about it happening again. When cancer comes back it is called a recurrence, and fear and anxiety about recurrence can take strike at any time.
Top resources
Alliance Launches PSA to Promote Resources & Prevention
The new initiative raises awareness of Colorectal Cancer Alliance support services and screening to curb the rising rates of colorectal cancer, the second deadliest cancer in the U.S.
Volunteer spotlight: Christine Rizk
In this Q&A, get to know Christine Rizk, a passionate and dedicated Colorectal Cancer Alliance volunteer from Phoenix.
Christy Williams: Biomarker testing leads to successful treatment
Statistics suggested that Christy’s odds of survival were grim, so she leaned into her faith and kept a positive outlook. She tried to control what she could. And, critically, she received biomarker testing.