89TAB FIVE | RESOURCES patient guide
Educational Programs for Patients, Families and Caregivers The UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center believes that education is critical for helping patients with cancer, and their family
members, cope with the disease. Our new patients can attend a weekly orientation program to get answers to questions about:
who to call when help is needed; what to expect at their appointments; where to find practical and valuable resources that can
make life a little easier for patients and families; how to manage treatment-related symptoms; and much more.
For most people with cancer, living with the disease is the biggest challenge they have ever faced. The disease changes your
routines, roles and relationships. Through our free, monthly educational series, Living With Cancer, patients can learn from
leading experts on topics related to living, and coping, with cancer. These talks are designed to help patients navigate the
challenges of their cancer journey and to provide opportunities to learn from and interact with UAB professionals including
oncology nurses, physicians, therapists, dietitians, and financial advisors. The talks include: “Managing Depression and Stress”
and “Nutrition for the Cancer Patient”, “Spirituality: Having a Guide for Your Journey”, “The Impact of Cancer on the Family”;
“Compassion Fatigue” and “Survivorship: Living Beyond a Cancer Diagnosis.”
For more information on the latest topics, dates, times and locations, go to www.uab.edu/cancer, “Patient Care” and “Education.”
Courage Companions Fear of what lies ahead often accompanies a cancer diagnosis and we want you to know that you do not have to face the fear
alone. Through the Courage Companions program you will connect with another individual who has faced similar challenges.
At the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, we understand that the fight against cancer is more than a physical
battle-it’s an emotional journey as well. We are dedicated to treating the entire person and hope that our program and
services make your experience here as positive as possible.
The Cancer Center is proud to offer Courage Companions, a program providing you with emotional support throughout
your cancer journey. See below for answers to some common questions about the service.
Q: How does Courage Companions work?
A: Once you have enrolled in the program you will be matched with a volunteer who has been personally touched by cancer and trained to help others. While friends and family can be caring and compassionate, no one can truly understand the
challenges of having cancer like those personally affected. In most cases your volunteer will have experienced the same type
of cancer and under similar circumstances as you.
Q: How do I sign up?
A: Call (205) 996-5364.
Q: What does the program include?
A: Currently the program includes personal, phone and/or online support. Volunteers help their referrals cope with the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of their cancer experience. The unique relationship enables patients and caregivers to talk freely,
share concerns and express fear without feeling they are hurting or overburdening their loved ones. It is a confidential service.
Q: Is there a fee for the program?
A: No. The Cancer Center is proud to partner with Houston-based Cancare to provide this service to you free of charge.
Q: How can I volunteer/help?
A: If you are a cancer survivor or caregiver, we would love to have you on our team. For questions or more information, please contact the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center at (205) 996-5364.