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Newly Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer?

 
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If you’ve been recently diagnosed with colorectal cancer, it’s likely been a difficult and confusing time. No one plans for cancer. And it's normal to have a lot of questions. At Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers (RMCC), our team understands how overwhelming a diagnosis can be, and are here to help every step of the way.

As your partner in care, RMCC professionals work closely with you throughout treatment – from helping you prepare for your first medical oncology appointment to supporting you through recovery and beyond. Our goal is to empower you with the information and resources you need to take an active role in your care.

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Who is Part of the Colorectal Cancer Care Team?

While surgery may seem like the logical first step in treating colorectal cancer, some people can benefit from a different approach. At RMCC, we recommend first consulting with a medical oncologist, who will help determine the best treatment for your unique situation.

When you choose RMCC, you have access to our colorectal cancer specialists at any of our locations across Colorado, including Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Denver. 

See Who's On Your Team Find a Colorectal Cancer Specialist

Can I Wait to Make Decisions About My Treatment?

When it comes to cancer treatment, it's important to move forward thoughtfully and without unnecessary delay. Try not to put off your care, but also avoid rushing to make decisions before your questions and concerns are answered. A good first step is to schedule an appointment with a gastrointestinal or colon cancer specialist who can help you understand your options and next steps.

Request an Appointment

Understanding Colorectal Cancer

Your treatment plan will be tailored to you and based on a number of individual factors. Below are several important aspects that are used to create your colorectal cancer treatment plan.

What are the Types of Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a collective term used to describe cancer that starts in the colon, rectum, or both. Knowing the stage of your cancer will help the care team at RMCC.

Types of Colorectal Cancer

What is the Extent of my Colorectal Cancer?

If you have been diagnosed with colon cancer, your doctor will recommend tests to determine if your cancer has spread, and if so, how far. This process is known as staging.

Colorectal Cancer Stages

What are the Treatments for Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Your doctors will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan which may include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation therapy.

Colorectal Cancer Treatments

What Are the Types of Colorectal Cancer Surgeries?

Surgery is often part of the treatment process. The timing and type of surgery vary based on the location and stage of cancer and will be decided together with your oncologist. 

Types of Colorectal Cancer Surgery
Free Guide for Newly Diagnosed Colorectal Cancer Patients
Get helpful tips on what to expect and how to prepare your mind and body for colorectal cancer treatment. We offer tips for your family, too. 
Download Now

Getting Ready for Your First Appointment

It’s hard to know what to expect from your first oncology appointment. In addition to learning more about your care team, you will likely receive a lot of new information. Consider taking a loved one or friend with you to this first appointment. Not only will they be there to provide emotional support, but can listen and help take notes. For more information about your first visit with an RMCC oncologist, visit our New Patients page.

Keep a Notebook

Following a diagnosis of colorectal cancer, you will likely be juggling a lot of details regarding your treatment and care. To stay organized, consider getting a notebook to record important information. You can include notes on how you’re feeling, a summary of medical visits, details on medicines or supplements you’re taking, and questions or observations regarding appointments and procedures.  

Don’t forget to bring the notebook to office visits and keep it handy during phone calls with your care team. Try to put a date on everything you write down to keep your thoughts and notes organized. 

If a written notebook doesn’t work for you, try using audio recordings or jotting down notes on your phone. Whatever way you choose, keeping information in one place can help you manage the many details of treatment and communicate well with your doctors.

Ask Questions to Help You Make Decisions

You are an essential part of your cancer care team, and having the right information can help you make good decisions. At your first appointment, consider asking these questions: 
  • What other experts are members of my care team?
  • How does cancer potentially impact my family members? Is there a genetic connection?
  • What role does my lifestyle (diet, exercise, rest, stress) play in my treatment plan?
  • Are there any activities I should avoid? Are there activities I should add to my routine?
  • Do you have specific diet/nutrition recommendation? Are there any natural supplements I can or can’t take?
  • What are my colorectal cancer treatment options, goals, and side effects?
  • Am I eligible to participate in any clinical trials?
  • What supportive care resources are available to me?
  • What time frame do I have to make treatment decisions?

Other Questions to Ask About Colorectal Cancer

If you have colorectal cancer, understanding your diagnosis and what to expect during cancer treatment can help you feel more prepared. To help, consider asking your oncologist the following questions. It can be helpful to write them down in your cancer notebook:

  • Do I have colon cancer or rectal cancer?
  • Will I need more tests?
  • Will I need a colostomy bag? Will it be permanent?
  • Do I need to change my diet?
  • Will cancer treatment affect my daily life? 
  • What are the treatment options for my colon or rectal cancer?
  • What are the side effects of these treatment options? 
  • Does my colorectal cancer treatment plan include surgery?
  • Do my siblings or children have an increased risk of colon or rectal cancer?
  • Should I exercise during chemotherapy or radiation treatments?
  • Will I need to see other medical specialists as part of therapy?

Should You Get a Second Opinion?

Feeling confident about your colorectal cancer diagnosis is extremely important. To help, many people seek a second opinion before beginning a specific treatment plan. At RMCC, our physicians provide second opinions on both colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment options. Many insurance companies will cover a second opinion assessment, but contact your insurance provider for verification of coverage.

Request an Appointment

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