COLORECTAL CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (The Bottoms Up Club) The group was formed to provide an opportunity for bowel cancer patients and their carers to: * 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. For further information: Tel. David Rowley (01782 202505) Secretary: Peter Taylor (01270 873304)