Help in a Box
GUTS has introduced an initiative to give people who are newly diagnosed with bowel cancer relevant information and practical solutions for the road ahead.
Anyone who has had such a diagnosis themselves, and those who have supported a friend or relative with such a diagnosis, will know what a difficult time it is. Processing the news and trying to get to grips with a whole new lexicon of medical terms is enough of a challenge. On top of that there are numerous practical problems you need to contend with.
GUTS has put together boxes of useful items and information to give to patients. The contents include patient-focused, comprehensive written information, useful items and a few treats to help patients cope with side effects of treatment. The contents are all suitable for both men and women.
What the boxes contain
- A copy of ‘Everything you hoped you would never need to know about bowel cancer’ by Dr Anisha Patel
- Body lotion, foot cream and lip salve to help relieve the dry/itchy skin that can be a side effect of treatment
- Marshmallows – a sweet treat that is also a good digestive aid, particularly after gut surgery
- Puzzle book and pen
- A few herbal tea bags
- Information leaflets
Who can request a box and how do they get one?
Patients from anywhere in the UK can request a box completely free of charge. Just get in touch with GUTS using the contact us facility or by calling the GUTS office on 01483 408316.
The charity welcomes support for the scheme from members of the public. Anyone can ‘sponsor’ a box of information and help for bowel cancer patients by buying one via the GUTS online shop.
ABOUT GUTS
GUTS is a long established bowel cancer charity based at the Royal Surrey FT hospital in Guildford. The charity works to improve bowel cancer survival. It supports research projects, funds equipment and facilities, provides a clinic for families at a high risk of bowel cancer, and offers support for patients at the end of their treatment through the Bowel Owl project.