Living with Anal Cancer

Being told you have cancer can trigger a wide range of emotions, including shock, fear, confusion, anger, guilt, and sadness. You may feel overwhelmed, numb, or uncertain, experiencing these emotions all at once or in waves, which can be exhausting. Everyone reacts differently, and it’s normal to feel a mix of these emotions. Taking time to process the news and finding ways to cope that work for you is essential.

Specialist nurses are available to support you if you’re struggling emotionally or dealing with specific challenges, offering tailored assistance and detailed information about your condition. Dietitians can address any dietary concerns, while stoma nurses provide guidance and support for managing a stoma.

It can also be useful to talk to people who are going through the same thing. The good news is that there are patient support groups available. You can contact one of our Member patient organisations in your country or please reach out to us and we will introduce you to your closest patient group.