The January and February issues of The Best Times contained a two-part article about prostate cancer. In addition to Cancer Action and several local support groups, a key source of support for people with prostate cancer or any other type of cancer is the Cancer Hot Line of the R.A. Bloch Cancer Foundation.

Newly diagnosed cancer patients are encouraged to call 800-433-0464. The hotline is a free service operated by volunteers who have had cancer. The goal is to match newly diagnosed patients with someone who has recovered from the same type of cancer. The purpose is not to recommend specific treatments or physicians, but to figuratively put their arm around the new patients and help them make the myriad decisions they will face.

According to the foundation, "Fear, disbelief, uncertainty, lack of direction, helplessness, and hopelessness are some of the feelings experienced by the newly diagnosed patient. We've all heard lots of stories and we don't know which way to turn. We are totally frightened by the unknown. We are completely out of control of our own life. Talking with an individual who has beaten the same type of cancer can calm us, give us reasoning power, and most important, get us back in charge of our own life."

The foundation recommends that each patient read "Fighting Cancer," sent free by the Cancer Hot Line. Call 800-433-0464 today.