Knowledge and support are two valuable tools for cancer patients and their loved ones. Thanks to the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service, those two things are never further than a phone call away.

CIS operates one of four national, toll-free cancer helpline locations at the University of Kansas Medical Center. At 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237), information specialists narrow down the available information on cancer to each caller’s unique needs and provide an understanding ear. “You must go home every night feeling good about what you do for people in need,” one caller said.

Callers can learn what to expect from treatment, the side effects of drugs, how to help someone they know who has cancer, what clinical trails are available and what the latest treatments are. They can also get help finding services such as hospice care, free mammograms or local support and recovery groups. “The security that comes with knowledge is an incredible relief,” another caller said.

With a wealth of information available on the Internet, it can be difficult to find what is relevant and reliable. “Out of an ocean of information, our information specialists are trained to pull out that piece that will respond to the caller’s needs,” said Amy Gaier, Cancer Information Service Program Director for the Heartland Region.