Diagnosis and Staging
Getting a colorectal cancer diagnosis can turn your world upside down. You might feel scared, confused, or unsure what to ask next. Take a breath. You’ve got this, and we’ve got your back. ♥︎
This starter guide gives you five of the questions that matter most right now. Use them to ground yourself, get clear answers, and walk into appointments ready to advocate for your whole self (and your booty).
Why Asking Questions Matters
Cancer care is a team effort, and you’re the captain. The more you understand about your diagnosis and treatment, the better you can make decisions, spot when a second opinion could help, and advocate for teh care that respects your identities, priorities, and life.
You deserve clear answers, explained in plain language. No jargon. No judgment.
Your 5 Starter Questions
What exactly is the cancer’s type, stage, and location?
Every cancer behaves a little differently depending on where it starts. Ask your doctor to explain the type, stage, and location using simple terms (and maybe a drawing. Visuals help!).
Can you explain in plain terms (no jargon)?
Can you point out on a scan or body map where the tumor is?
Has it spread to lymph nodes or other organs?
What molecular or biomarker testing has been done (or should be done)?
This one’s crucial! Biomarker testing (sometimes called molecular testing) looks for specific changes in your tumor’s DNA. These results help your care team match you with the most effective treatments and rule out ones that won’t work.
Has my tumor been tested for markers like MSI-H/dMMR, KRAS, BRAF, NTRK, or others?
How will those results affect which treatments might (or might not) work for me?
If the testing hasn’t been done, can we do it now?
Should I be tested for Lynch syndrome or other hereditary conditions?
What are all of my treatment options, and which do you recommend?
Treatment might involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Ask your doctor to walk you through each one:
Surgery, chemo, radiation, immunotherapy, targeted therapy: which ones apply to me?
What’s your recommended plan, and why?
Are there alternative or less aggressive options worth considering?
What is the goal of treatment for me right now?
Knowing whether your treatment is meant to cure the cancer, control it, or relieve symptoms helps you plan your next steps and set expectations.
Is it to cure (if possible), control the cancer, or reduce symptoms?
How do you measure success — shrinking tumor, stable disease, improving quality of life?
How soon do I need to begin treatment, and what steps do I need to take first?
Some cancers grow quickly, others more slowly. Ask:
Are there tests or consultations I should complete ahead of time?
Do I need to bank sperm or eggs (fertility)?
Should I get a second opinion or see a specialist center?
What’s the timeline for starting? Weeks, days?
Do I need a chemo port?
Tips for Making the Most of Your Appointments
Bring a buddy. A friend or loved one can take notes or just be moral support.
Write it down. Make a list of questions in advance and bring it with you.
Ask for a written summary of your visit.
Don’t be afraid to say, “Can you explain that another way?”
Ask permission to record the visit if that helps you remember details.
We’re Here for You
No matter who you are, where you live, or how you identify, you deserve respectful, affirming, and compassionate care.
At Cheeky Charity, we’re here to make sure no one walks through a colorectal or anal cancer diagnosis alone. If you’re looking for resources, peer support, or simply a community that gets it, you’ve found your people.
When you’re ready, there’s more.
Right now, you don’t have to know everything. You just need enough to get through today.
These five questions are a way to bring a little clarity into a moment that can feel overwhelming. That’s enough for now.
When the fog lifts and you’re ready to go deeper and to ask about side effects, finances, long-term plans, and what comes next — part 2 will be there for you.
Take the next step when it feels right.