How to Volunteer to be a Chemo Angel

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:VolunteerChemoAngel
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How to Volunteer to be a Chemo Angel

Introduction

Chemo Angels is a national program where volunteers are matched with a person going through cancer treatment. The volunteers send a small gift every week to help brighten the day of the person undergoing treatment. For volunteers whose budget is tight, Chemo Angels has the option of being a card angel. They send a card or letter every week. Patients in the program are age two and over. Volunteers need to be at least twenty-five years old. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Steps

1

Step One

Go to the Chemo Angels website and read all the information on the program. Any questions you have can be answered by sending them an email.
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Step Two

Think about the commitment. Depending on the specific type of cancer and treatment protocol, patients may be receiving treatment for a few months to a few years. Chemo Angles asks you continue your letters or gifts for the length of treatment. Assess your situation and honestly determine if you can make the commitment.
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Step Three

Fill out an application online. You will be asked why you want to be a Chemo Angel along with your contact information.
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Step Four

State your age preference. Although not always possible Chemo Angels will try to match you with the age range you requested. If religious affiliation or gender is important criteria for a match state that in your application.
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Step Five

Accept a match. Once you are approved to be a volunteer the program will look for an appropriate match. You will be sent an email when a match is available. Once you accept you will receive information on you "buddy" such as their address, their interests, family members and pets.
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Step Six

Start writing or sending gifts. Write a letter to introduce yourself to your buddy. If you are matched with a young child include a note to the parents. Keep things light and friendly. If you are sending small gifts as part of your volunteering include one with your letter.
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Step Seven

Continue to send cards, letters or gifts for the length of their treatment. Try to send something once or twice a week. The program will notify you when they have completed treatment.

Tips & Warnings

  • Keep in mind this is not a pen pal program. Your buddy may choose to write back to you but that is not required.
  • If you would like an update on your buddy contact the Chemo Angles program. They can get information on how they are doing medically.
  • Budget your money. Do not spend more than you can afford. Keep gifts small and inexpensive.
  • Do not discuss your own heath or problems. Remember you are there for a diversion and to brighten their day for a few minutes.
  • Contact the program if you need to stop volunteering before your buddy finishes treatment.
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