Conquering Cancer Together

Group Offers Camaraderie, Education

John Herrold and April Burchardt sit at Enloe Health Park discussing how the Colorectal Cancer Support Group has helped them through their cancer journey.

In a room where talking about bowel movements and biopsies is the norm, the stigma of colorectal cancer fades into a powerful sense of shared survival.

Every month, the Enloe Health Regional Cancer Center hosts the Colorectal Cancer Support Group. Attendees learn information, hear about coping strategies and find encouragement, but most importantly, they realize they are not alone.

John Herrold, who lives in Chico and is a military veteran, is no stranger to support groups. But when he was diagnosed with colon cancer, he said this group made a big impact on his life. “The group helped me to where I am today, where I can live with being in remission from cancer,” Herrold said.

Cancer is different for everyone. Something that works for one person might not be beneficial for another. That’s why Herrold believes being part of a support group can improve the healing process. “The only way you can get better is if you share your problems and then somebody else gives you feedback,” he said. “It’s nothing negative. It’s always positive.”

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third-most diagnosed cancer in the United States and third-leading cause of cancer death in both men and women.

April Burchardt is in remission but still travels from Orland to Chico to attend the support group meetings.

“The friendships that we have there are special. I have exchanged my phone number with some of the women and kept in contact with them, even if they are no longer attending the classes,” Burchardt said. “I really feel that it’s important for my own health and mental health to keep in contact with the people outside the one time a month.”

The person who leads the support group is Haylee Vowles, RN. Vowles is the Lead Oncology Nurse Navigator at the Cancer Center. She says the greatest challenge many patients face is changes in bowel habits.

“For generational, cultural and societal reasons, many people are ashamed to discuss their bathroom routines,” Vowles said. “In the support group, we normalize the topic and allow patients to openly share about it.”

Herrold said this is the mindset he had to change after being diagnosed with colon cancer. “I get angry when I have an accident, but then I laugh because it’s a part of my life now, and there’s nothing you can do,” he added. Herrold said Vowles shares her knowledge and truly cares about each patient who attends the group.

For anyone facing colorectal cancer, reaching out can be the hardest step. But as this group shows, it can also be the most healing by opening the door to knowledge, friendship and renewed confidence.

Are You at Risk?

Experts recommend people who are at average risk for colorectal cancer to begin screening for this cancer at age 45. Screenings can find the cancer early, when it’s easier to treat, according to the American Cancer Society.

Talk to your care team about screening options.