We know what you are going through. Talk to us.

Recognizing the needs of families in the initial phases of diagnosis, the First Connection program brings patients and their caregivers the opportunity to share experiences with someone who has "been through it," and obtain valuable information on Society and community resources available to support them. This unique match gives the new patient or caregiver valuable insight from someone who also has experienced a blood cancer. Patient and volunteers are matched by age, diagnosis and gender when possible.

Peers are trained in basic counseling skills and are armed with local resource materials so that patients and their caregivers need not feel isolated as they begin the process of treatment. Anyone with leukemia or related cancers is eligible to receive a call or visit. There is no charge for this program.

Volunteers Needed
To become a peer volunteer, you should meet the following criteria:

• Have an interest and commitment to helping others
  
• Be screened by the chapter for the program
  
• Participate in all training provided by the chapter