Stony Brook Southampton Hospital's Phillips Family Cancer Center and the Ellen Hermanson Breast Center have partnered with the Cancer Hope Network to pair adult cancer patients and family members who need support with trained volunteer cancer survivors.
"As a cancer survivor, I understand how frightening and isolating a diagnosis can feel," said Sarah Cohen, an administrator coordinating the project at the hospital. "The opportunity to have access to someone who has already gone through treatment can inspire hope and confidence."
"Cancer Hope Network was the first in the nation to provide free and confidential peer support for patients with cancer and the people who love them," said Sarah Miretti Cassidy, the director of external affairs at the Cancer Hope Network.
After an initial assessment, patients are matched with a survivor, and have phone contact within 48 hours.
Support volunteers must be at least one-year post-treatment or successfully undergoing maintenance therapies. Interested volunteers can contact Ragan Ingram at 631-726-8800 or ragan.finalborgo@stonybrookmedicine.edu.
East Enders with a cancer diagnosis who would like to connect with a volunteer can contact the Cancer Hope Network by calling 1-877-467-3638.
