However, if you would like to read some more general information now, you may find these suggestions helpful.

Bladder cancer information centre
The Cancerbackup site covers general information, causes and diagnosis, treatment, clinical trials, resources and support. Order booklets online, or contact Cancerbackup for a printed copy (free to patients).

Bladder cancer
The CancerHelp (Cancer Research UK) website has detailed information on many aspects of bladder cancer.

Bladder Cancer WebCafé
Lots of information on treatment options, new developments, and questions to ask the doctor, as well as patient stories and email discussions.

Cancer Index (guide to internet resources for cancer)
You can use this to find worldwide sites on bladder cancer.

The following booklets have been published by manufacturers of products for those who have had bladder reconstruction:

Understanding urostomy – a guide for new patients
Explains what happens during a urostomy, and how you can adjust to life afterwards. Free from ConvaTec. Email: stoma.webcare@bms.com

Your urostomy operation… and afterwards
Explains what a urostomy is, how it is carried out, how to care for your stoma and how to resume a normal life. Free from Coloplast.

The continent urinary pouch – an alternative to a urostomy
Explains what a bladder reconstruction is, how the operation is done and what happens before and afterwards. Free from Coloplast.

Your urostomy and you – a guide to living your life to the full
Includes information on appliances, pouches and returning to everyday activities. Free from Salts.

Your urostomy explained
Subjects include: What is a urostomy? Why do I need to have a urostomy? Who is the stoma care nurse? What does a stoma look like? Free from Dansac. Email: dk.homepage@dansac.com

Get up and go! Your guide to carefree travel and holidays
Travel advice for ostomists. Free from Coloplast.

Fit for anything – a guide to fitness and healthy eating
Dietary advice for ostomists. Free from Coloplast.

Dietary and nutritional advice for ostomists
Advice for patients who have had a colostomy, urostomy or ileostomy. Free from Dansac. Email: dk.homepage@dansac.com

Why do I need a stoma?
For patients who are going to have a colostomy, urostomy or ileostomy. It explains why a stoma may be needed, and how you may feel emotionally after the operation. It includes a list of questions to ask the doctor. Free from Dansac. Email: dk.homepage@dansac.com

Your stoma operation and recovery
For patients who are going to have a colostomy, urostomy or ileostomy. It explains what to expect before, during and after the operation. Free from Dansac. Email: dk.homepage@dansac.com

Adjusting to life with a stoma
Advice about coping with your feelings, looking and feeling good, and talking with others. Free from Clinimed. Email: enquiries@clinimed.co.uk