Quality-of-life Programs

Healing the whole person

Caring for a patient with cancer doesn’t end at medical treatment. That’s where Roswell Park’s quality-of-life programs come in. They play a vital role in supporting the mental, emotional and spiritual wellness of cancer patients as part of a holistic approach to care. 

Your Support Improves a Patient’s Quality of Life

When a patient goes through their cancer journey, they face countless obstacles on the road to recovery. Beyond the physical toll of treatment, they also juggle the emotional and spiritual impact of cancer alongside any personal challenges.

Quality-of-life programs include services like oncology massage, therapeutic movement classes, wig and head-covering programs, bedside attendants, child life specialists, creative arts therapies, transportation and much more.

Through these services, patients find moments of comfort and normalcy during an otherwise overwhelming journey.

Two women hug each other warmly indoors. One, facing the camera, smiles with eyes closed, while the other has her back to the camera. The softly blurred background creates a cozy atmosphere, reflecting Roswell Park Alliance Foundation Quality of Life Programs.

Cancer is not just a diagnosis — it’s a life-altering experience that affects every aspect of a patient’s and family’s well-being. Quality-of-life programs provide essential support beyond clinical treatment, addressing physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs. These programs help patients manage symptoms like fatigue, pain and anxiety, while also reducing caregiver stress and promoting resilience.

Andrew Storer, PhD, DNP, RN, NP-C, FAANP

Chair of Roswell Park’s Quality-of-Life Committee and Chief Nursing Officer

A man with short light hair and glasses is smiling, wearing a navy blue suit, light blue shirt, and a patterned tie. The bright, softly blurred indoor background hints at his involvement with Roswell Park Alliance Foundation Quality of Life Programs.

What your gifts make possible

When you donate to Roswell Park, you’re making it possible for experts to run quality-of-life programs that make a significant difference in the patient experience. With each donation, you are giving hope to those who turn to Roswell Park for care.

New Era Cap Foundation Elevate Salon

This specialized space provides wigs, hats and head coverings for adult and pediatric cancer patients across Western New York.

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The 11 Day Power Play Cancer Resource Center

This comprehensive resource center offers patients and their caregivers a reprieve from treatment. Here, they can find an educational library, specialty support kits for all patients in treatment, inpatient birthday celebrations and a space to relax away from the hustle of the hospital.

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Older Adult Oncology Program

This program launched in 2024 and offers focused evaluations for patients aged 65 and over, promoting the use of physical therapy, nutrition assistance and complex decision-making support to optimize their cancer care journey. This is particularly important considering that 70% of people with cancer are 65 or older and have complex medical needs like mobility issues, multiple medications and more.

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Cancer Coach Program

Through Roswell Park’s cancer coach program, patients are matched with people who have survived a similar diagnosis or experience. A cancer coach can provide a unique level of empathy and understanding.

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Other services

  • End-of-life bereavement support
  • Fertility preservation for adolescents and young adults
  • Diversionary programs like creative arts
  • Child life programs
  • Mastectomy pillows and supplies
  • Aromatherapy stickers
  • New patient portfolios for all patient paperwork
  • Sleeper chairs for in-patient units
  • Spiritual care
  • Transportation services
A person receives a back massage while seated in a massage chair. Supported by the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation Quality of Life Programs, the therapist presses their hands on the person's lower back in a calm, indoor setting.
Roswell Park Alliance Foundation logo featuring blue and white burst design on the left and the organization’s name in bold black and blue text on the right.

Programs like the few listed above, as well as dozens of others, are essential to patients and their families as they navigate the challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis.

More about your impact