The total experience of cancer includes a broad range of non-medical human needs, which physicians and hospitals cannot possibly address. The Cancer House of Hope focuses on those. It began as a conversation between two women who met while undergoing radiation treatment for breast cancer in 1995. They were struck by the limited support services for cancer patients in Western Massachusetts, so in 1997 they founded the House in a home-like setting where, free of charge, patients find support groups, relaxation classes, yoga, a comprehensive lending library, internet resources, wigs, prostheses and a sense of community.

The Cancer House of Hope has served over 800 people with over 50 types of cancer, and has grown by filling the voids that patients find: a "Recently Diagnosed" group addresses the issues that emerge with a new diagnosis; "Coming to Terms" helps those with advanced metastatic cancers; and "What Now? When Treatment Ends" helps cancer patients readjust to "normal" routines after undergoing months of chemotherapy, radiation and/or surgery. Goals for the future include the opening of a second facility in Springfield. Your support helps keep the conversation alive!