Living with and beyond colorectal cancer with a permanent colostomy: metaphor, survivorship and long-term care

Abstract

This article considers the implications of a descriptive doctoral study on the long-term care needs of colorectal cancer patients with a permanent colostomy. It explores how figurative language shapes how patients and clinicians describe and perceive illness, including the pitfalls of moralistic and military metaphors, as well as how metaphors can be used for effective clinician–patient communication. It considers how the concept of survivorship is defined and experienced by cancer patients, including the disruption of perceived time and the therapeutic value of narratives. It also looks at the importance and extent of patient empowerment for self-care, as well as the necessity and lack of long-term support for cancer patients after discharge following the 5-year NHS follow-up period. Finally, it proposes how ongoing support could be provided, as modelled by the Care for Life Plan.