Services and Programs

Pediatric Hematology/Oncology

Parent Advocate Program

Golisano’s Children’s Hospital collaborates with the Childhood Cancer Association (CURE) to support the Parent Advocate Program, a valuable resource designed to offer support to parents of children newly diagnosed with cancer. The Program is funded and administered by CURE and thrives through the commitment of volunteer Parent Advocates. Each Parent Advocate is the mother of a long-term cancer survivor, and is able to empathize and support families in a unique and personal way.

Did You Know… Our relationship with CURE has extended almost thirty years and as a result, thousands of children have benefited.

Parent Advocates work closely with doctors, nurses, and social workers to determine the non-medical needs of families and relay those needs to CURE. Needs may range from emotional support to financial assistance. Financial assistance may provide for incidental costs incurred during a stay at the hospital including parking fees, emergency meal money, uncovered medical expenses, emergency transportation and, if necessary, help with funeral expenses.

Our Parent Advocates are available to meet with families one-on-one to help them through this stressful time. In addition, the Parent Advocates host a coffee hour each Thursday afternoon at 1:00 pm at the hospital. This gathering provides parents with an opportunity to share their experiences and hard-earned wisdom.

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