A patient’s need to receive, and perhaps give, coping support while she goes through cancer treatment is recognized by SEGO. Patients have told us that only someone who has had cancer can understand the day-to-day challenges that come with being a cancer patient.

Patients need to talk to each other. To meet this need we have begun a free, voluntary, patient-to-patient coping support program, called SEGO Buddies. Buddy teams consist of patients who have been introduced to each other based on information each supplies to our SEGO Buddies Coordinator.

We also have a similar program for our patient’s caregivers – SEGO Caregiver Buddies. This introduces caregivers to each other for mutual support.

To apply, patients and caregivers use a simple one-page form to provide information about themselves and their circumstances. If you do not want to use the online form - call, fax, or write to the address below and we will mail you a form.

• SEGO Buddies Introduction
• SEGO Buddies Guidelines
• SEGO Buddies Application

• SEGO Caregiver Introduction
• SEGO Caregiver Application

The following factors are considered when matching Buddies:

	age of patient			history of recurrence
	location of residence			SEGO doctor
	type of cancer			coping challenges
	year of diagnosis			talents & interests

Each participant can choose to either -

	Give & Receive support
	Give support (not needing to get support in return)
	Receive support (not able to give support at that time)

Patients are introduced to each other by our SEGO Buddies Program Coordinator and are encouraged to establish and maintain contact.

Many participants use email to maintain contact. Telephone calls, personal visits, and cards are also used to give and receive support. As a bond develops, each SEGO Buddy team will find its own way to create a supportive experience.

Our Social Work department is also available to provide guidance.

To participate, please contact SEGO Buddies Program Coordinator:

Southeastern Gynecologic Oncology, LLC
980 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 900
Atlanta, GA 30342