The American Cancer Society (ACS) is seeking cancer survivors to volunteer for the Reach to Recovery program in Lincoln County.

“The ACS program provides information and support for women facing breast cancer using Reach to Recovery ‘visitors,’” said Summer Garrison, senior community manager for the ACS. “These visitors are women who have been there.”

As breast cancer survivors, these special volunteers are trained to provide information and support to women who have been newly diagnosed with breast cancer.

“The heart of the program is one woman reaching out to share personal experiences and give support to another in a time of need,” said Garrison.

The ACS will certify Reach to Recovery volunteers on Saturday, March 27, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the ACS office, located at 2607 Commons Boulevard in Augusta.

For more than 40 years, the ACS Reach to Recovery program has helped people, both women and men, cope with breast cancer. It all begins when an individual is faced with the possibility of a diagnosis of breast cancer and continues throughout the entire period that breast cancer remains a personal concern.

“When people first find out they have breast cancer, they may feel overwhelmed, vulnerable, and alone,” said Garrison. “While under this stress, many people must also try to understand complex medical treatments and then choose the best one.

“Talking with a specially trained Reach to Recovery volunteer at this time can give a measure of comfort and an opportunity for emotional grounding and informed decision making,” she continued. “Patients and family members have a chance to express feelings, talk about their fears and concerns, and ask questions of someone who is knowledgeable and level-headed.

“Most importantly, Reach to Recovery volunteers offer understanding, support, and hope because they themselves have survived breast cancer and gone on to live normal, productive lives.”

The visits may take place face-toface or by phone.

Those who are one year post-surgery breast cancer survivors and no longer taking treatment should call Summer Garrison toll free at 1-866- 227-0904 to obtain more information about becoming a Reach to Recovery volunteer.

The deadline for registration is Monday, March 15.