First Connection Frequently Asked Questions*

*What is the First Connection Program?

First Connection (FC) is a peer to peer support program.  The program matches interested individuals with trained volunteer survivors who have been through treatment for the same diagnosis.  The goal of the program is to provide individuals with support, information and hope from people who have had similar experiences.

*How does someone request a FC match?
Interested individuals can contact the Minnesota Chapter office by phone, email (elizabeth.gordon@lls.org) or through an online request on the Web site.

*Who can request a FC match?
Any interested person can request a match.  This includes patients, family members or friends.  Most often matches are requested by patients with a relatively new blood cancer diagnosis, or a recent change in treatment plan.

*Is FC a big time commitment?
No! First Connection is one phone call or email. Many participants and volunteers choose to remain in contact, but that is based on their own availability and interest.  

*How are the matches made?

The requesting indvidual is matched with a volunteer who had the same diagnosis and treatment. We can also try to match other factors, such as age at diagnosis, marital status, having children, primary language, and geographic region. 

*Can a requesting individual speak with more than one volunteer?

Multiple FC matches are always an option.  You can also request an additional match later in your treatment, if at any point you want to talk with another survivor.

*How do the volunteer and requestor contact each other?

Once a request for a match is made and a volunteer is located, the Patient Services Manager will contact the volunteer to see if they are available to make the connection.  The volunteer then contacts the requestor via phone or email at a time that is convenient for both parties.

*What type of training do FC volunteers receive?
Volunteers with the FC program receive Society-sponsored training.  Once per year, a "refresher" training is offered as well. 

For answers to your questions about First Connection, please contact the Minnesota Chapter at (763) 852-3012, toll free at (888) 220-4440 or email elizabeth.gordon@lls.org