CanCare of Houston, Inc., an interfaith cancer support network with the mission: to improve the quality of life for cancer survivors and their families, will host a training session for cancer survivors and family members from March 26-28, 2004. After completion of training, volunteers will be able to provide one-on-one long-term emotional support to those experiencing cancer. CanCare matches volunteers with individuals according to cancer type, treatment, gender, age, and family situation. This one-on-one emotional support is provided free of charge to anyone who needs it.
Trainers include doctors, nurses, clergy, psychotherapists, professional trainers, and fellow cancer survivors.
CanCare volunteers believe no one should suffer alone with cancer. Studies show that people with cancer who get peer support, encouragement, and hope have a better chance of surviving and living well in spite of their diagnosis. The unique relationships that are formed between patients and survivors allow the patients to talk openly, share concerns and express their fears without feeling that they are hurting or overburdening their loved ones. CanCare also recognizes that cancer is a family disease: everyone in the family is affected when a family member has cancer. CanCare helps family members cope with cancer and become part of the healing team. For more information about CanCare, check out our new site at www.cancare.org.