Telephone Support for Patients and Caregivers
If you or a loved one is navigating a cancer diagnosis, our free telephone support program can connect you with understanding peers who have walked a similar path.
Imagine having someone who truly understands, who’s been there themselves, ready to listen. Over 1-2 phone calls, our peer mentors are here for you, offering heartfelt support and guidance on your journey such as:
- Sharing insights on symptoms they may have encountered
- Sharing their perspective on treatments such as chemotherapy, surgery, or transplants
- Discussing common workplace challenges, such as how to communicate with your boss
- Providing tips on how to share your diagnosis with friends and family
- Introducing you to the supportive resources available at Dana-Farber
- Exploring integrative therapies to enhance your well-being
If you’re a caregiver, we also have peer mentors who understand the unique challenges you face and can offer guidance and support tailored to your role by:
- Providing insights on how to navigate caregiving responsibilities while supporting your loved one through treatment
- Offering tips on self-care
- Discussing strategies for communicating effectively with health care providers and advocating for your loved one’s needs.
Request a Mentor
- Fill out this Referral Form. You'll hear from us within 48 hours once we receive your referral form.
- You can also call 617-632-4020 and leave a message. We’ll return your call promptly to gather initial information and connect you with a mentor.
Volunteer As a One-to-One Mentor
Please fill out the Volunteer Application and kickstart the process of making a meaningful difference in someone’s life.
For any inquiries or further information, call 617-632-4020 or email us onetoone@dfci.harvard.edu. We’re here for you every step of the way. Together, we can navigate this journey with warmth, compassion, and understanding.
Meet Some One-to-One Volunteers
Lisa Sofis (breast cancer survivor)
It's been more than a decade since Lisa Sofis' 2005 breast cancer diagnosis. While the treatment that followed was challenging, "Sof" says the passing of time, as well as her involvement with the One-to-One program, has allowed her to heal. Today she not only makes calls for the program, but also helps coach new volunteers as part of the on-site training at Dana-Farber — offering firsthand experience for prospective volunteers. Professionally, Sof serves as the operations manager for Law Enforcement Dimensions, LLC.
"I know cancer, but I also know beyond it, and I try to share that with the people I call. Being part of this program has allowed me to help others, and be helped by them too, which is truly a great thing."
Deb Osborne (caregiver)
In 2008, Deb Osborne's husband, Allan, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. While the initial diagnosis was shocking, the couple felt extraordinarily lucky after Allan was successfully treated. The experience also inspired Deb to give back by looking to help others in a similar situation. Today both Deb and her husband, Allan, are involved in the One-to-One program. Deb, a retired elementary school teacher, also hosts a monthly peer-to-peer Caregivers Coffee Hour at Dana-Farber's Eleanor and Maxwell Blum Patient and Family Resource Center. The couple hopes their work at Dana-Farber provides comfort and hope to other patients and their families.
"A cancer diagnosis can consume you. When patients are ready to talk, I'm there to help. I feel a special bond with the people I call, and I'm so grateful I have this opportunity to provide comfort and reassurance to others."