Fourth Angel

When diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1997, Olympic figure skating champion Scott Hamilton identified three "angels" who helped him in his successful fight. His oncology physician was his first angel; his oncology nurse was his second angel; and his family and friends were his third.

What he found missing, however, was a fourth angel—somone who had gone through the same experience and who understood what he was feeling. Someone, in short, who had "been there."

After beating his cancer, Scott set up the 4th Angel Mentoring Program.

Patient Mentors

The 4th Angel Program matches patients with a cancer survivor of a similar background and age who can offer advice and support. Anyone with cancer can be brought together with a mentor. Once a match is made, the mentor will then set up a phone or e-mail correspondence with the patient.

Caregiver Mentors

Mentors are also available for anyone caring for a cancer patient. A caregiver mentor is someone who is currently, or was previously, a caregiver for a cancer patient. 

Mentors call on their life experience to assist others in their journey through cancer. They offer comfort and reassurance to patients and family members, allowing them to express their feelings, talk about their fears, and ask questions of someone who has been in their situation.

For more information on being a patient or caregiver mentor, visit www.scottcares.com.

To have someone from the 4th Angel Network contact you regarding joining the program, please click here.