The prospect of starting on chemotherapy or radiation treatments can be overwhelming for even the most knowledgeable individual. Our dedicated staff members and volunteers are available to serve as guides along the journey.

CPSP Services

The Cancer Patient Support Program (CPSP) offers a number of services to help patients through what can be a very difficult time.

• One-to-one patient orientation
• Individual counseling for patients and family members
• Support meetings
• Educational programs
• Hospitality and refreshments in Outpatient Clinics
• Resource Center
• Appearance consultation for treatment-related side effects
• Free wigs and turbans

Finding Your Way Around

A member of our staff is available in the Hematology and Oncology Clinic to greet each new patient upon arrival. We explain how our program works and show patients and family members around the clinic and treatment rooms, helping to familiarize them with our resources.

Hospitality Rooms

As an alternative to the traditional waiting room areas, we have 2 hospitality rooms in the Outpatient Cancer Center where patients and family members can relax. One is located on the 1st floor in Radiation Therapy Department; the other is on the 3rd floor in the Hematology and Oncology Clinic. The hospitality rooms are stocked with refreshments and staffed by trained volunteers.

Our volunteers share a special bond – nearly all are veteran cancer patients themselves or have had family members with a cancer diagnosis. They understand that every patient’s journey is unique. They know how to listen to patients’ concerns and fears. They strive to ensure that every patient has access to the resources and support they need to make informed decisions about their care.

Resource Center

Navigating through the maze of available cancer and treatment information can be exhausting. Our Resource Center is designed to help make this process easier for patients and their families.

The Resource Center is located on the 2nd floor of the Outpatient Cancer Center. Brochures, pamphlets and information covering a variety of health and cancer related topics are available at no cost to patients. In addition, books and videotapes are also available for use while in the Resource Center.

More detailed information can often be located by using the bookmarked websites on Resource Center computer.

Specially trained volunteers and/or staff members are available to help patients utilize the resources available and find the information they need.

Appearance Consultation

The side effects of some treatments can often cause changes in physical appearance. We understand that helping patients look their best can also help them feel better throughout their cancer treatment. CPSP staff members are available to help patients locate the resources they need to manage these treatment-related side effects. In addition, we offer wigs, turbans and caps at no charge to patients.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Our team includes members from a variety of specialties, including psychology, counseling and nursing. These staff members work directly with the medical professionals who provide your care. Our multidisciplinary approach to care ensures that all of the services patients might need are available in the same place.

We are all part of the same team, and we are all here to help. The key element in our program is the healing relationship that develops when one person cares for another.

How You Can Help

The Cancer Patient Support Program depends on the generosity of patients, family and friends to provide its services. Contributions are tax deductible.

Checks should be made payable to the "Cancer Patient Support Program" and mailed to:

Office of Development
CPSP Gifts Officer
Medical Center Boulevard
Winston-Salem, NC 27157

For more information please call the Office of Development, Comprehensive Cancer Center of Wake Forest University at 336-716-4589.