Where do I find other caregivers with whom I can talk one-on-one?

46. I am not really interested in attending
a group or talking with a bunch of people
about my caregiver concerns.Where do
I find other caregivers with whom I can talk
one-on-one?

Buddy programs exist that link fellow caregivers
together for added emotional support and information
exchange, ranging from basic advice to more complex
problems, such as coping with a new diagnosis. Some
useful resources are the National Family Caregivers
Association, the American Cancer Society, CancerCare,
Inc.

Informally, you may meet fellow caregivers at hospital
appointments or waiting rooms. Buddy programs are
available for patients as well. These cancer survivor volunteers
can suggest strategies for your loved one about
how to get through surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation
therapy, how to deal with common frustrations of
interfacing with the medical system, and so on. Most
importantly, survivor volunteers provide hope to people
who are currently battling cancer. Many hospitals and
doctors have formal and informal ways of connecting
you with cancer survivors and caregivers for support.

Your doctor, nurse, or social worker may have suggestions
on finding a cancer survivor, or a person going
through similar challenges, with whom your loved one
can meet, in addition to the community agencies
already mentioned.