Survivor Match Program

What is the Breast Cancer Survivor Match Program?
The Breast Cancer Survivor Match Program pairs callers with peer counselors who share a commonality: the same diagnosis, the same age, or having experienced similar challenges.  When you call the Y-ME Hotline, you can request to be paired with a peer counselor who has had a similar experience as yourself.  This confidential, free-of-charge service is available to anyone who calls the Hotline.

 
What’s the benefit of requesting a match peer counselor?
Newly diagnosed individuals may feel alone and overwhelmed by the changes in their lives.  Y-ME peer counselors have experienced those emotions and have coped with them.  Now they’re here to help you by providing immediate emotional relief, information, and support only someone who has experienced breast cancer firsthand can offer.

 
Do I have to be newly diagnosed to participate?
No! Anyone who would like to talk to a person with a specific set of circumstances is welcome to participate.  Y-ME match peer counselors understand all stages and types of breast cancer and have had many different life experiences.

 
What kinds of matches are commonly requested?
Most situations have been addressed by our match peer counselors.  Common topics and circumstances include, but are not limited to:

• Mothers with children
• Elderly woman who feels alone
• Man who is newly diagnosed
• Someone with inflammatory breast cancer
• An individual with metastasis to the bones

What should I do if I have another question about the Survivor Match Program?
Call the toll-free Y-ME Hotline at 1-800-221-2141 anytime.  The peer counselor who answers your call will be able to help you.

 
How can I become a match peer counselor?
Diversity of experience is critical to the Y-ME Match Program, so we are always recruiting for more peer counselors.  Every peer counselor must complete a basic 40-hour training module and certification test as well as an ongoing series of continuing education modules.  Certified peer counselors also receive quarterly advanced training sessions to assure their skills remain sharp and they remain current on new developments in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and research.  Counselors are also provided with updates on breaking news as they occur.

If you’re interested in participating, visit our volunteer section of the Web site or apply now.

If you'd like to speak with someone about these opportunities, email dhayes@y-me.org.