Resources for Youth with Cancer

Cancer is bad. And getting a cancer diagnosis at a young age brings its own set of challenges. Weathering rounds can mean taking time away from the normal rhythms of early adulthood: school, graduation, first job, first apartment. It feels like a miss.

Because most of the resources developed for cancer patients are created for older adults, younger patients don’t have much to rely on. But there are a handful of organizations working to make cancer diagnosis more empowering — by building communities, supporting mental health, and delivering programs that align with priorities. and youth values.

• SurvivorNet

  You don’t have to have a PhD to understand the cancer you’re living with. Here’s what stands out for the cancer communication platform SurvivorNet: It makes it easy to research what’s next for you — no matter where you are in your diagnosis, treatment, or recovery — Doesn’t feel like science homework. The site publishes interviews with leading cancer experts, powerful stories from survivors, the latest cancer research news, and maintains an up-to-date clinical trial finder. And it has its own streaming service, SurvivorNetTV, where you can watch movies and documentaries related to your cancer journey.

• Stupid Cancer

  Since 2012, Stupid Cancer has categorized the answers to key questions that come up after a cancer diagnosis — about things like finances and health insurance, yes, but also sexual health, dating. dating, career, exercise and maintaining fertility. And Stupid Cancer works to remove the social isolation that too many cancer patients know about. You can join online discussion groups, make new friends at one of the regular meetups, and gather once a year for CancerCon, a weekend-long event with groups sharing how to love your body. body, learn intimacy and self-advocacy at the doctor’s office.

• Simms/Mann – UCLA Integrated Cancer Center

  Simms/Mann – The renowned UCLA Integrated Cancer Center was founded on the belief that good treatment does not begin and end with medical care. Instead, the center balances traditional treatment with holistic modalities. Try talk therapy, related spiritual care, mindfulness groups, and Qigong. Take a class on what to expect before surgery. Head into the on-site store, Reflections, to purchase hijabs and swap body image changes. Or see an integrative oncologist to discuss nutrition and supplements to support recovery. It’s a thoughtful, effective, patient-centered cancer treatment, and most programs are free.

• The first line

  For more than a decade, the nonprofit First Descents has been leading outdoor adventures for youth affected by cancer. Throughout each program — surfing, kayaking, rafting, rock climbing, hiking, or yoga — participants are immersed in nature and connected with other young people facing challenges. diagnose cancer. Adventures do not require any prior experience and they are offered for free. And they’re not just for fun. First Descents has clear therapeutic benefits: Research shows that outdoor recreation programs for young cancer patients reduce symptoms of grief, increase feelings of independence and emotional well-being. mental health, while improving the patient’s sense of social support.

• InKind Space

  Melissa Telzer, a two-time cancer survivor, founded InKind Space to help people turn their cancer journey into a source of strength and purpose. The site features a free collection of resources, guides, and lifestyle tips, and hosts discussions led by doctors, scientists, and other experts. Coming soon: expert consultation and registration for community members.

This article is for informational purposes only, even if and notwithstanding the advice of doctors and other medical professionals. This article is not, nor is it intended as a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. The views expressed in this article are those of experts and do not necessarily represent the views of goop.