Regarding Cancer

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, cancer has overtaken heart disease as the number one cause of death in the Central Texas Area and over 10,000 people will receive a cancer diagnosis this year. A cancer diagnosis can generate a thousand feelings. Fear, confusion, anxiety, distress, despair, depression, anger, hopelessness and frustration are just a few. With each diagnosis, there will come the need to understand the disease and treatments, to cope with emotions, to manage disruptions and mood disturbances, financial stress, changes in role, spiritual concerns and many other psychosocial problems that co-occur with cancer.

Regarding Cancer was founded in May 2016 by two breast cancer survivors who, after reflecting on their personal journeys through cancer treatment, were dismayed with the limited array of cancer patient support and psychosocial services in the Austin area. Specifically, they recognized an absence of peer-to-peer support and resources to cancer patients and caregivers. Together they started Regarding Cancer to decrease barriers to care and ensure that those touched by cancer have access to the support necessary to be active participants in their own care and mental well-being.

Importantly, the impact of Regarding Cancer’s services is not limited to the cancer patient, but also the survivors who volunteer with the program. Being able to take your own experience and turn it into something positive by helping someone else is invaluable.

Regarding Cancer serves anyone 18 years and older at any stage of cancer, including those facing death and support for loved ones of those who have lost their battle with cancer. All of our programs are available for people across the cancer continuum, including from the time of diagnosis, during, post-treatment and survivorship.

The Peer-to-Peer Support Program

The Peer-to-Peer Support Program matches a newly-diagnosed cancer patient (or primary caregiver) with a trained survivor of the same type of cancer. Volunteers receive an individual 3-hour training from our Program Director to prepare them to assist with the initial emotional, psychological and practical uncertainties posed by a cancer diagnosis as well as HIPAA rules and regulations. Volunteer:patient matches seek to align characteristics including tumor type, stage, gender, ethnic background, and lifestyle. This relationship is one of friendship and support and provides a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen, and a hand to hold. It is based on shared experiences, frustrations and hope of survivorship.

Infusion Room Support Program

The Infusion Room Support Program utilizes trained volunteers to visit with patients undergoing chemotherapy in hospitals or outpatient cancer treatment centers. Currently, Regarding Cancer serves 18 clinics in the Austin area including Texas Oncology, Austin Cancer Centers, Seton Infusion Center, St. David’s South Austin Medical Center, St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center and Baylor Scott & White. Volunteers also have access and knowledge of additional resources including providing referrals to free community resources.