The Association runs a buddy scheme. Individuals concerned about issues relating to lymphoma can discuss them with another person who has been through a similar experience.
Our ‘buddies’ are people who have had lymphoma themselves or have someone close to them who has had lymphoma. They are not trained counsellors but have volunteered to offer a listening ear.
This scheme, run by a senior member of the helpline team, puts callers to the helpline who request a buddy in touch with someone who has experienced a similar situation. We appreciate that not everyone who calls the helpline wants to speak with a buddy, as many people will cope with the illness in their own way. For some, however, speaking to someone else who has already been through a similar experience can be a real source of support.
Many of our callers will never have met another person with lymphoma. By being put in touch with a buddy, they can speak to or correspond by email with someone who has a real understanding of what they are going through.
The buddies do not replace the helpline service, but work alongside the helpline team to provide the personal experience which callers may ask for.
If you are interested in speaking to a buddy, or you would like to find out more about being a buddy, please telephone the freephone helpline (0808 808 5555).
Comments about buddies
"What a tonic, she was wonderful. I came off the line floating on air. She was encouraging and genuinely interested in me. "
"Just speaking to him gave me such hope and inspiration I am now coping in a positive way and I really feel much better."
"Talking to her really helped"
