COVID-19 NEWSLETTER

The COVID-19 pandemic situation is constantly evolving. Canada is slowly reopening, with many cities and municipalities enforcing mask requirements and social bubbles to reduce the ongoing spread. Colorectal Cancer Canada (CCC) aims to support colorectal cancer patients, family/friends and caregivers through this constantly evolving situation. This blog will cover where to buy stylish masks that give back, a summer recipe recommendation, how to safely connect with family and friends and further COVID-19 resources being offered by CCC.

• Wearing masks/where to buy masks

Wearing a mask when leaving the house is a new reality for most Canadians. Although wearing a mask is one more thing to remember when walking out the door, they play an important role in protecting ourselves and those around us against the ongoing spread of COVID-19. Masks have even become somewhat of a fashion statement, with a wide variety of colours, patterns and materials available. If you’re looking for a Canadian online outlet to buy masks, why not give back while you shop? Here are a few suggestions for great looking masks which also support important Canadian causes:
• CommUNITY masks give $1 to Food Banks Canada for each mask purchased
• Freed and Freed masks give 5% of proceeds to the Black Youth Helpline
• Roots masks give a portion of proceeds to the Frontline Fund, with over $500,000 already been donated from mask sales
• Frank and Oak masks donate all proceeds to the Moisson Montreal Foodbank
• Mackage masks donate all proceeds to the United Way Centraide

• Recipe

Summer is usually a time for patios and backyard gatherings with friends, but this summer looks a little different. Although restaurants are open in some Canadian cities, many of us do not yet feel comfortable eating out. Here is a recipe to help you beat the heat while staying safe at home with your family: https://www.foodsthatfightcancer.ca/spring-rolls/

• Ways to connect with friends/family safely

Many of us have been much more isolated over the past few months. Restrictions are slowly being lifted, but the worry of the COVID-19 spread is still very real. How can we connect with family and friends safely and responsibly? Here are a few suggestions:
• Hold an outdoor movie night: while sticking to your jurisdictions’ gathering limit, invite friends and family over to view a movie outdoors. This allows you to keep a safe distance, wear masks, and enjoy a movie and snacks. Remember, it is not safe to share popcorn or other snacks from the same bowl. Instead, make small movie snack packages for each of your guests.
• Start a book club: gather some of your bookworm friends or family, and choose a book that interests all of you. If you are able, hold your book club meetings on an outdoor walk, while maintaining a safe distance. If not, meetings can be held over the phone or internet to ensure that everyone can attend safely.
• Hold an online or socially distanced game night: there are many virtual game options that can be played digitally to stay distanced and avoid touching game pieces or cards. Try downloading a game app, such as “Psych”, which can be played from the comfort of your home or in a socially distanced gathering.
Keep in mind that at-risk populations, such as older adults or patients in treatment might be at a higher risk, and may not yet feel comfortable leaving the house. Be sure to reach out to your loved ones and continue to connect virtually until it is safe and comfortable for them to socialize physically!

• Link our resource page and other one

Finding reliable resources, specifically for cancer patients or caregivers, can be overwhelming. We have developed a Colorectal Cancer Canada COVID-19 resource hub, which has gathered reliable information from national and international sources. We have also collaborated with All.Can and various other Canadian cancer organizations to present COVID19OncologyResources.ca. This resource focuses on all aspects of support during COVID-19, including mental and emotional resources.

As always, if you wish to contact us directly for support, we can be reached at info@colorectalcancercanada.com or 1-877-502-6566. We’re here to help!