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 cancer patients the opportunity to speak to survivors or other veteran patients who have already "been there."

For patient participants:
Patients can be matched with volunteers according to criteria such as diagnosis and stage, age, and gender. Talking with someone who has lived with cancer can often be comforting and can reduce the sense of anxiety and isolation during the initial period of diagnosis. The volunteers are a wonderful group of individuals who can provide special support, comfort, and practical advice to others who have been newly diagnosed or who are facing new decisions with their cancer.

For support volunteers:
Veteran patients receive the opportunity to share the knowledge and insight gained from their cancer experience. By doing so, veterans not only help others, but also have the opportunity to share and connect with others in a rewarding and constructive way. Peer Support Volunteeers must:

Be one year post-treatment
Complete the training
Not dispense medical advice
Make a commitment
Maintain confidentiality

If you are interested in talking with a peer or becoming a volunteer, please call the Resource Center at 415.885.3693 or send email.