A Training Model of a Self-Help Group for Patients with Cancer of the Colon

Abstract

The colostomy patient must cope, not only wilh the diagnosis of cancer and the medical treatments it entails, but also with bodily disfigurement, impairment of sexual functioning, and inhibition of social activities because of the odor resulting from the expulsion of gas. Many express a desire to talk to a patient of longer standing because they fear that they will be unable to return to normal living. This article presents a training model of self-help for patients with cancer of the colon who received a colostomy. The authors describe the content of a 10-week group training course for veteran colostomy patients who were motivated to serve as volunteers with "new" patients. A multidisciplinary team of professionals participated in the planning stage of the course and conducted the group meetings. The authors also discuss the volunteers' activities with new colostomy patients. On the basis of patients' reports, conversations with a volunteer had a positive impact on their recovery.