Cancer, Family, and the Holidays
The holidays are a time filled with joy, love, and cherished traditions. However, when cancer becomes part of the equation, the festivities can take on a different tone. Patients and […]
Supporting a Friend with Cancer: Avoiding Burnout and Isolation
Supporting a friend with cancer is one of the most selfless and loving acts you can undertake. Your role as a supporter is pivotal, creating a safety net of care, encouragement, […]
The Impact of Loneliness and the Magic of Connection
Ever felt like you’re swimming in a sea of emojis and Snapchat filters, yet still missing out on genuine connections? It’s like we’re all plugged in, yet somehow, we’re feeling […]
Navigating Support Roles and Responsibilities: A Guide for Romantic Partners and the Patient’s Family
When a loved one is diagnosed with a serious illness, it is not just the patient who faces the challenges. The impact is felt deeply by their family members, including […]
Supporting a Co-worker with a Cancer Diagnosis: Expert Tips and Guidance
A cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a young adult’s work life. The physical and emotional toll of treatment can make it difficult to focus on work tasks, and the uncertainty […]
Finding Normalcy: The Vital Role it Plays after a Cancer Diagnosis
Normalcy refers to the state of being normal, usual, typical, or expected. It is often sought after by adolescents and young adults (AYAs) diagnosed with cancer because a diagnosis can […]
Survivorship: Why Your Continued Support Matters
Life after cancer, often called survivorship, is a unique experience filled with challenges and rewards. It encompasses the period after cancer treatment, during which individuals may still grapple with the […]
From Struggle to Strength: The Power of Resilience for Young Adults with Cancer
Resilience refers to the ability to adapt and bounce back from difficult experiences, and it is an important aspect of the adolescent and young adult cancer experience. Adolescents and young […]
Survivors Guilt: What Is It and Who Feels It?
Survivor’s guilt is a complex psychological phenomenon that can arise in individuals who have survived traumatic events, such as cancer. It encompasses a range of emotions, including guilt, shame, and […]
Oncology Nurses: The Unsung Heroes in Cancer Care
In the realm of cancer care, a group of individuals provides unwavering support, compassionate care, and a ray of hope to patients and their families during their most challenging moments. […]
Mental Health for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer: How to Support Them
Cancer is a devastating disease that affects not only the individual diagnosed but also their loved ones and support community. Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer face unique challenges, […]
Empathy and Compassion: Building a Stronger Support Community
Empathy and compassion are crucial for adolescents and young adults with cancer and their support community. Cancer can be a difficult and trying experience, and it can be easy for […]
Cancer in High School Series (Part 4): How a High School Can Rally Together to Make a Difference for Classmates
“My school has been so supportive and helpful and I couldn’t be more thankful for that! A friend of mine hosted a swab drive with DKMS and they had a […]
Forgiveness and Cancer: Letting Go for Healing and Recovery
Forgiveness is essential to any relationship, but it can be especially crucial for adolescents and young adults with cancer and their support community. Cancer is a life-changing event that can […]
Perfecting Communication After a Cancer Diagnosis
Cancer is a difficult and life-changing experience that can significantly impact an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. Good communication skills can help build trust, alleviate anxiety, and improve the overall […]
Social Isolation After a Cancer Diagnosis: How to Be Supportive
Adolescents and young adults with cancer face a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to isolation. The physical, emotional, and social effects of cancer can make it difficult […]
Cancer in High School Series (Part 3): Supporting a Classmate After Treatment
If you have a friend or classmate who has been away for a long time and is ready to return back to school, keep in mind that their life is […]
Cancer in High School Series (Part 2): Supporting a Classmate During Treatment
“Over the years, I’ve answered, ‘What’s the hardest part about having cancer as a teenager?’ in the same way: feeling forgotten.” Treating cancer is a difficult process and should certainly […]
Cancer in High School (Part 1): Overview of the Teen Cancer Experience
Receiving a cancer diagnosis is devastating at any age, but receiving a diagnosis in high school is particularly disruptive and comes with its own challenging obstacles. High school is a […]
A Letter to Parents of a Young Adult Diagnosed with Cancer
Seven years ago today, Kirsten called with news that changed our lives forever. I still have the text exchange on my phone from July 26, 2015. She was away at […]