The Buddy System

A cancer diagnosis is staggering; for many, emotions range from fear and anger to sadness and depression.  While family members and friends are often quick to lend their support, most may not completely understand what it’s like to have cancer.  For some newly diagnosed, talking about their cancer to someone who has never had the disease is difficult.  A Buddy System provides one-on-one support for patients throughout their cancer treatment.

The Buddy System Program pairs up newly diagnosed cancer patients with volunteers who are NYCBS cancer survivors.  A buddy is matched with a patient with the same type of cancer.  Then by phone, the buddy and the patient connect, allowing the patient an open and safe forum to share what they think and feel with someone who understands cancer from the inside, as few can. 

It is rare that a patient can speak with a peer directly and honestly about their specific type of cancer and have the other person completely understand what they are going through. This program provides our patients with emotional healing, which is extremely important when dealing with cancer.

Through this relationship, you get one-on-one support throughout your cancer treatment. The Buddy System facilitates a dialog for the emotional healing patients also need in addition to the medical care.

A patient seeking a buddy can email Dr. Schomber at Jschomber@nycancer.com or Dkearns@nycancer.com for more information.