For patients requesting peer support:

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 those interested in volunteering:

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:

Complete an evening training where you will be asked to:

• Make a commitment to uphold the values and mission of UCSF
  
• Maintain the confidentiality of all the patients.

Complete the HIPAA component at the training.
Make a one year commitment to the program.