How do you feel today?

I’m feeling like I have the energy to get organised  for myself and my family

When living with stage 4 bowel cancer, every day holds significance, and managing practicalities like finances, physical health, and life admin is crucial.

When you feel that surge of readiness to bring order to these practicalities, we offer gentle ways to ease your burden. Here, you will find resources designed to support that momentum. Our aim is to help free up your valuable time and energy, so you can focus on what matters most.

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Take control of your finances

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Support your body

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Get your life admin organised

Take control of your finances

We understand that living with stage 4 cancer can bring unexpected costs and changes to your income. Taking control of your finances can help restore a sense of calm and stability.

This section is here to support you with practical information – from understanding what financial support you might be entitled to and even writing a will. Even small steps towards getting organised can make a big difference.

89%

9 in 10 people with stage 4 bowel cancer can experience some financial impact because of their diagnosis and treatment.¹

44%

Nearly half can see a decrease in income. You might not be able to work as much as you used to, and transport costs for appointments can also add up.

Below, you will find links to trusted resources from charities, including guides for drafting a will and information on benefits.

Ready to take control of your finances.

Personal independence payment

We understand that living with stage 4 cancer can bring unexpected costs and changes to your income. Taking control of your finances can help restore a sense of calm and stability.

Macmillan free will service

Thinking about a will can feel overwhelming – and it is completely normal to have mixed emotions. But it can also be a practical, empowering step. This resource guides you through what is involved in clear, simple terms – whether you are starting from scratch or updating a will you have already written.

Support your own body

Stage 4 cancer can present a daily challenge for the body – but having the right practical resources at hand can help give you and your body the right support at the right time.

Here, you will find advice and support from trusted organisations such as Macmillan Cancer Support, Cancer Research UK and Bowel Cancer UK.

Macmillan pain management resource

There are a variety of different ways cancer pain can be managed. This resource describes different kinds of prescription and over the counter pain relief and non-medicated techniques. Family members, friends and carers, may also find this information helpful.

Cancer Research UK exercise and cancer guide

Exercise is safe, possible, and helpful for many people with cancer. Becoming more active can help you feel stronger, more energised, and more confident in your body. This information is about being more active during treatment and beyond.

Bowel Cancer UK eating well guide

During and after treatment, you may find you cannot eat the same foods as you did before. This guide explains how different foods can help you manage your symptoms and provide tips for eating with a stoma, boosting your appetite and eating healthily.

Get your life admin organised

Sorting out your life admin can feel empowering and bring peace of mind — both for yourself and those you care about.

Life admin conversation starter

Use these gentle prompts to get organised, spark important conversations, and ensure your wishes and information are clearly shared. Please only share important information, including any passwords, with someone you trust.

Finance

Start with the practical side of things
- Are all your bank accounts, credit cards, mortgage information, car payments or investments listed somewhere accessible?
- Do you have any life insurance or pension details you can share with someone you trust?
- If someone needed to help you with money matters — where should they go to?
- Is there anything about your home or shared assets that you’d like to talk through with a trusted person?
Digital access & passwords

Your digital life matters too — make sure someone trusted can access what’s important
- Are your important passwords written down or stored safely on an encrypted app?
- Who should be able to manage your utility bills, digital subscriptions, banking, or medical portals if needed?
- Who should take care of your digital presence if you’re not able to?
Important documents

From medical records to wills, having things in order makes a big difference
- Where do you keep important paperwork like medical info, wills, or legal forms?
- Does someone know how to find them if needed?
- Are birth certificate, marriage certificate, or citizenship paperwork easy to find?
- Have you shared your preferences about after life planning? e.g. funeral, cremation vs burial.
- Who is best positioned to make decisions on your behalf through lasting power of attorney (LPA)? Find out more about LPA here: www.gov.uk/power-of-attorney
The family home and beyond

Sometimes it helps to talk openly about any emotional or logistical concerns
- Are there any property deeds, car titles, or rental agreements that should be passed on or have their management reviewed?
- Do you have any pets whose care arrangements should be planned for?
- Are there special items you’d want to pass along personally?
- Are your children aware of your diagnosis and what it may mean for you and them?