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Colon Cancer Questions

Talking about your cancer

After a diagnosis of cancer, it can be difficult to ask colon cancer questions. It can be equally hard to talk about what is happening to you and how you feel. You may be uncomfortable or embarrassed talking about your cancer to family and friends. And your friends, family and even health care professionals might also find it difficult to ask you colon cancer questions.

When you found out you have cancer, your first reaction may have been shock and disbelief. You may have felt numb and unable to hear what your doctor was saying. Or perhaps you felt that this diagnosis belonged to someone else. "This can't be happening to me. The doctor must be talking to the wrong person," you might have thought.

But talking about your cancer can help you to cope with the difficulties that cancer causes. It might even help you feel closer to the people who matter to you. Don't be surprised if your friends try to make jokes or some version of cancer humor. They may not know how to deal with the situation themselves.

Telling other people you have cancer

Telling friends and family that you have cancer is not an easy task. You are dealing with new emotions. Then, you have to cope with the reaction of the person you are talking to. A conversation like this can result in added stress. And this stress might increase your own fears and anxiety.

One of the most difficult things about being ill is telling your friends and family about it. But admitting that you are sick is often the first step in coping with cancer.

The biggest challenge is saying the words, "I have cancer." But saying those words aloud can release emotions you may be suppressing. Telling someone about your illness makes it more real. Then, some of your friends and family may find that personal discussions, combined with their own colon cancer questions, is the best way to overcome their own fears about your illness. And it is your responsibility to educate them on the extent of the disease. The more at ease and knowledgeable they are, the more effective support they can give to you.

"...admitting that you are sick is often the first step in coping with cancer."

However, if you don't want to talk about your cancer, it is okay. You might find that you would rather just get on with your life and do normal everyday things. And not discussing your cancer may be the best way for you to cope. If this is the case, tell your friends how you feel. You can add that if they have any colon cancer questions for you, you'll tell them when you are ready to talk.

Written by Deborah Theres - 4/13/09

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