When cancer is suspected or diagnosed, aside from the emotional burden (shock, disbelief, fear), many people feel overwhelmed by how much they don’t know about cancer. To understand one’s diagnosis and find out about treatment options can be the beginning of the process of regaining some control over the situation.
A Wealth of Information
The CCRC offers a wealth of information resources that cover all aspects of cancer from symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment to coping, wellness and even palliative care. You need not try to grasp everything all at once, and you may not feel like spending days here to learn what you need to know about your situation, so we offer a lending library of resources that you can sign out and use from the comfort of home. You can return the resources in person or by mail. Available materials include printed materials, plus audio and video formats.
Free Brochures
Several cancer-related organizations provide educational materials. The CCRC obtains and distributes resources from several of these organizations including the National Cancer Institute, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, American Cancer Society, and Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Our cancer information specialists can also download and print fact sheets and other materials from several excellent online cancer groups.
Many of our free resources are also available in Spanish.
Can't Come to Visit?
If you are unable to visit the CCRC in person, whether because you’re ill, lack transportation, or live too far away, you can still receive the same caring attention from trained cancer information specialists. If you have questions about cancer or RPCI, we can provide answers (in English and Spanish), free literature, and help you find the services you need. The most accurate and up-to-date cancer information is only a phone call or e-mail away.
RPCI’s Cancer Information Program (AskRPCI Line) provides information via the toll-free 1-877-ASK-RPCI service. Non-English-speaking callers can also use the AskRPCI line. Roswell Park uses AT&T’s language line to offer interpreter services in over 170 languages. Just call us with your questions at 1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724) and we will find the answers you're looking for.
In addition, we can send a free, customized cancer information packet to you by mail! If you can't call, we invite you to send your inquiry by e-mail to askrpci@roswellpark.org.
Our team can help you learn more about:
- Cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
- Clinical trials (studies of the newest cancer treatments)
- Publications
- Referrals to national organizations that provide services to people with cancer
The ASK-RPCI Line is staffed every Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. If you call after hours and leave a message, a trained cancer information specialist will return your call on the next business day. Or e-mail askrpci@roswellpark.org whenever you need assistance.