The Alpha-1 Foundation’s Peer Guide Program connects a newly diagnosed Alpha, or someone whose life has been affected by Alpha-1 (Peer), to another Alpha (Guide) with a similar set of circumstances.
Through this connection, the Peer has the opportunity to discuss difficulties and issues with someone who has had a similar experience. The Guide listens and provides emotional support, discusses resources available, and encourages the Peer to make informed and supported choices about their health and lifestyle.
Peer Guide connections are specific to a person’s experience:
- A lung-affected Alpha is paired with another lung-affected Alpha
- A parent of a newly diagnosed child is paired with another parent
- Someone facing a transplant is paired with someone who has already had a transplant
- Caregivers are paired with other caregivers
To request a Peer Guide or to learn more about becoming a Peer Guide, contact Cathey Henderson, Director of Community Programs, at 1-877-346-3212, or email chenderson@alpha1.org.
