A guide to cancer genetic counseling resources at Mass General and beyond.
Resources at Mass General Cancer Center
- The HOPES Program
The HOPES Program focuses on improving the quality of life and well-being of Cancer Center patients, their families and friends through free wellness services plus education and support workshops. These services help you take care of your whole self — mind, body and spirit. - The Maxwell V. Blum Cancer Resource Room
The Maxwell V. Blum Cancer Resource Room at the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center provides cancer patients and their families with information and resources for living with cancer. - The Marjorie E. Korff Parenting At a Challenging Time (PACT) Program
The Marjorie E. Korff PACT program at the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center provides psycho-educational support for parents who are patients.
Outside Support Groups
- FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered)
FORCE is the only national nonprofit organization devoted to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Their mission includes support, education, advocacy, awareness, and research specific to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. - Be Bright Pink
Bright Pink is a national non-profit organization that provides education and support to young women who are at high risk for breast and ovarian cancer. They arm young women with knowledge, options and a great attitude, and offer companionship and empathy during their journey. - VHLFA (von Hippel-Lindau Family Alliance)
The VHL Family Alliance provides information for families and physicians about this disorder and local self-help support groups for families affected with VHL. Local family support chapters exist in regions of the U.S. Local chapter meetings are scheduled periodically. International VHL Support Organizations are established on six continents. - No Stomach For Cancer
No Stomach For Cancer is a non-profit organization, established to provide Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer families with education and support, while helping to advance research into HDGC diagnosis, screening, treatment, and prevention. - Lynch Syndrome International
Lynch Syndrome International (LSI) provides information and assistance to individuals with Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer, also known as HNPCC or Lynch syndrome. LSI works to promote education regarding cancer surveillance and screening, while also providing patients with local resources.
General Information
- National Society of Genetic Counselors
Read about the goal of genetic counseling and find a genetic counselor in your area. - National Cancer Institute
Information page on cancer genetics. - American Cancer Society
Patient-friendly information on hereditary cancer and genetics. - Genetics Home Reference
Consumer-friendly information on genetic syndromes. - GINAhelp
Information on the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008, a federal law that protects individuals from genetic discrimination in health insurance and employment.
