Peer Support

Although each person’s experience is unique, many individuals find it helpful to talk to someone who has had or is currently in a similar situation.

The Peer Support Program offers people the opportunity to speak with others going through a similar situation. Cancer patients can speak with survivors or with current patients who have already “been there.” Patients can be matched with peer support volunteers according to criteria such as diagnosis, stage, age, gender or by preference of the person seeking support. Caregivers can speak to other caregivers. This is an on-the-phone service and it’s free.

All cancer patients or caregivers are welcome regardless of where the care is received.

Although each person's experience is unique, many individuals find it helpful to talk to someone who has had or is currently in a similar situation. Talking to someone who has lived with cancer or has experienced being a caregiver, can often be comforting and can reduce the sense of anxiety and isolation that a cancer diagnosis brings.

The peer support volunteers are a devoted group of individuals who can provide unique support, comfort, and practical information while not offering medical advice. Hearing about their experience can be invaluable.

How this works

• An intake with questions regarding your particular needs along with relevant medical information
• A signed consent form(s)

Online Peer Support

The Ida and Joseph Friend Cancer Resource Center also has an Online Peer Support service, where you can submit a question about coping with breast or prostate cancer to a volunteer online.

Caregiver Peer Support (by Phone)

The peer support program also offers the opportunity for caregivers of neuro-oncology patients to talk with other experienced caregivers for neuro-oncology patients as a way to reduce the anxiety and distress that can occur while taking care of others.

For Patients Requesting Peer Support

Patients can be matched with peer support volunteers according to criteria such as diagnosis, stage, age, gender or by preference of the person seeking support.
 
Although each person’s experience is unique, many individuals find it helpful. Talking with someone who has lived with cancer can often be comforting and can reduce the sense of anxiety and isolation that a cancer diagnosis brings.
 

Becoming a Volunteer (Phone Patient-to-Patient, Online Patient-to-Patient, Phone Caregiver-to-Caregiver)

Current patients or survivors and experienced caregivers receive the opportunity to share the knowledge and insight gained from their cancer experience. By doing so, they not only help others, but also have the opportunity to share and connect with others in a rewarding and constructive way.

Peer Support Volunteers must:

• Complete a one-time training event
• Make a commitment to uphold the values and mission of UCSF
• Maintain the confidentiality of all the patients and/or caregivers
• Make a one year commitment to the program

If you are interested in talking with a peer or becoming a volunteer, please call Idonah Molina, program coordinator, at 415.885.7801 or send email: IdonahWay.Molina@ucsfmedctr.org.