The bedrock of exceptional patient care at Duke Health’s Supportive Care and Survivorship Center is the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program. Pioneering in its approach, this program was established in 1987 by Rachel Schanberg and stood as one of the nation’s first formalized psychosocial support programs. From its inception, it offered vital counseling services, volunteer-driven peer support networks, and resources dedicated to enhancing patients’ self-image throughout their cancer journey.
A Foundation of Support: You Are Not Alone
Under the direction of Dr. Cheyenne Corbett starting in 2002, the Cancer Patient Support Program reinforced its commitment to understanding and meeting the evolving needs of cancer patients and their families. Embracing the powerful motto ‘You Are Not Alone,’ and fueled by the generosity of donors, the program expanded its services to bridge critical gaps in care. This included incorporating comprehensive resources specifically designed to support families navigating the complexities of cancer.
Innovations in patient care have been a hallmark of the program’s growth. The introduction of child life services and the development of KidsCan! exemplify this dedication. KidsCan! provides essential education and support for families where a parent is facing a cancer diagnosis. Furthermore, recognizing the profound impact of cancer on family dynamics, the program integrated medical family therapy, assembling a team of licensed therapists to provide specialized support. Services focused on self-image also continued to evolve, now offering personalized consultations at three Duke Cancer Center locations. These locations are staffed with expert self-image consultants who offer tailored advice and resources to address the physical changes associated with cancer treatment. Certified fitters are also available onsite, providing professional services for prosthetics, orthotics, and compression garments.
The Duke Cancer Patient Support Program’s dedication to comprehensive care is further demonstrated through a wide array of no-cost services. From recreation therapy to pet therapy, and a continuously expanding list of support groups, the program ensures that every individual who seeks support has access to holistic and compassionate care, reinforcing the message: You Are Not Alone.
