Copy


December Adolescent & Young Adult (AYA) Newsletter

The December Newsletter is organized by the following topics in this order:
 
- Networking & Support Groups
- Bilingual Resources
- Virtual Upcoming Events
- Research Opportunities
- Self-care, Grants, & Other Resources
- Chicagoland Cancer Support Organizations
- Nationwide Cancer Support Organizations
- Camp & Retreat Opportunities

- Helpful Websites, Tools, & Apps
- Financial Assistance Opportunities
- College Scholarship Opportunities
There are college scholarships available with upcoming deadlines! Free retreats / camps in 2022! Support Groups, Financial Assistance & more. 
Follow our Social Media pages to stay up to date about opportunities and resources.
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Email
Email with any questions at: aya@peds.bsd.uchicago.edu
UChicago AYA Clinic patients & caregivers:
Do you have an urgent medical question and / or unsure if it's an emergency?

Please call us at:

773-702-6149 for patients who see Dr. Stock, Dr. DuVall & Rebecca Pape APN

773-702-6808 for patients who see Dr. McNeer, Dr. Henderson, Dr. Desai & Kelly Kramer APN


Please, do not hesitate to call us.

Networking & Support Groups

UChicago & Comer AYA Group 
 
Join the UChicago & Comer Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) group that meets every Tuesday at 12 pm via Zoom! This group is targeted to our AYA patients. Patients can self refer themselves to the group and or may also be referred by your doctor.

For more information, questions or to join the group, please contact:

Ilayna Mehrtens, Ph.D. imehrtens@yoda.bsd.uchicago.edu

UChicago Coping with Chronic Pain Group 
 
Join the UChicago Coping with Chronic Pain group that meets every Thursday at 12 pm via Zoom

WHAT: Free, weekly virtual group meetings to connect with peers, share your experiences, give advice, and receive support.

WHO: Any teen or young adult (ages 14+) who receives inpatient or outpatient care at Comer Children’s. 

WHERE: on Zoom Meeting ID: 926 1474 3178 Password: Comer123 

For more information, questions or to join the group, please contact:
Ilayna Mehrtens, Ph.D. imehrtens@yoda.bsd.uchicago.edu


Mondays at 5:30 pm, Thursdays at 12 pm, and Saturdays at 10:30 am: Living with Cancer Weekly Support GroupThese adult only groups are for those living with cancer (of any diagnosis and stage of treatment), those who are a caregiver or loved one, or those coping with the death of a loved one from cancer, facilitated by a licensed mental health professional trained in our supportive framework.

Thursday, December 2 at 10 am: Black Women of Ethnicities Drop-In Group Please join the Black Women of Ethnicities Group for this supportive monthly group. Black Women of Ethnicities Group is of women who collaborate and empower one another while discussing challenges such as facing gender discrimination, bias environments, compounding obstacles of racism and building relationships all through the impact of cancer diagnosis.

Wednesday, December 8 at 6 pm: Cancer Survivors Monthly Support Group - Please join this supportive drop-in group for a time to connect and share experiences about life after cancer treatment. This group is open to men and women with any cancer diagnosis.

Saturday, December 11 at 9 am: LGBTQIA+ Monthly Support Group -  Please join this supportive drop-in group for those who identify as LGBTQIA+ and have been impacted by cancer, including those who are living with cancer, family members and friends.

Mondays at 5:30 pm: Caregiver Weekly Support Group - Gilda’s Club Chicago’s weekly support groups are facilitated by a licensed mental health professional trained in our supportive framework. These adult only groups are for  those who are a caregiver or loved one.

Tuesday, December 14 & 28 at 5 pm.: Men's Group - This men's only group is for those who are living with cancer or have a loved one living with cancer. Topics may include cancer and wellness, sports and movies and anything in between.
 
Tuesday, December 21 at 10 am: Grupo de Apoyo Mensual - Reunirse con el grupo de apoyo mensual para Latinos impactados por cancer, incluyendo gente viviendo con cancer, familiares y amigos. En el grupo pueden obtener información, compartir recursos y recibir apoyo emocional.

Tuesday, December 21 at 6 pm: Young Adult Monthly Support Group - Please join this supportive monthly group for young adults (ages 18-39) who have been impacted by cancer, including those who are living with cancer, family members and friends.
Want to meet people who just ''get it''? Connect with other patients, survivors, caregivers, and professionals to build lasting friendships with people that share your experiences. Register by clicking the group below. 
 
Stupid Cancer
Stupid Cancer Meetups are a space to have fun and connect with your peers, without stigma or awkward questions. 
 
Caregivers & Coffee
Friday, December 3 & 17 at 10:30 am

Treat yourself! Join us for an online sip and chat morning coffee break for caregivers. Enjoy the welcoming support of other AYA caregivers in conversation and camaraderie! 
Want to sign up or have other questions or need additional information email: aya@mdanderson.org


Meeting logo
Weekly Virtual Happy Hour - Join us every Friday for Virtual Happy Hour at 4:30 pm. We will use this time to talk about the AYA cancer community, Elephants and Tea, and play a game! For more information & to register, please visit their website.

Bilingual Resources

  • Cancer & Careers - La página ofrece información y herramientas para ayudar a las personas que trabajan a enfrentar su lucha contra el cáncer tan eficazmente como lo hacen con el resto de sus vidas.
  • Children's Oncology Group (COG)- Diagnosis Guide for Teens and Young Adults (AYA) in English, Spanish- Esta guía se escribió para pacientes y familias que están aprendiendo acerca de un nuevo diagnóstico de cáncer. Also available in French.

Virtual Upcoming Events

Family Building During & After Cancer
Wednesday, December 1 at 5 pm CT

Starting a family can be a complicated and emotional journey, especially if you've been diagnosed with cancer. Join us for a free educational workshop exploring how treatment may impact fertility for pediatric & young adult cancer patients and survivors, preservation options prior to treatment, fertility options after cancer treatment, as well as a look at the process of adoption. We will also discuss the psychosocial effects of family planning, including communication with partners and more. All patients, survivors, loved ones, and healthcare professionals are welcome. 

Please join us for this Panel Discussion presented by the Michigan Medicine Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program, The Leukemia and LymphomaSociety, and the Cancer Support Community of Greater Ann Arbor. Register here.


Holiday Stress Survival Guide
Thursday, December 2 at 6 pm CT

Everyone is familiar with holiday stress, but add a journey with cancer and it becomes overwhelming. Come learn how to navigate this holiday season with techniques to lower the pressure and lift your spirits. Register here.
Presented by: Audra Eisin Banazek, LCPC, ATR



Frankly Speaking About Cancer: Treatment & Side Effects
Tuesday, December 14 at 1pm CT

Please join Oncology Nurse Navigator, Nicole Houlihan, for an interactive discussion on ways to manage treatment side effects such as fatigue, hair loss, anemia, infection and pain. We will also talk about how to manage emotional distress and strategies to optimize quality of life during and after cancer treatment. Register here.
Presented by: Nicole Houlihan, RN, BSN, OCN | Oncology Nurse Navigator at Advocate Christ Medical Center


Presented by Cactus Cancer Society and Elephants & Tea 

A Week of Interactive Survivorship Crash Courses for Facing Cancer

December 6 - 10 at 6:30 PM CT 

Throughout the week of December 6th, we invite you to share, explore, and learn as we interact together.  You are the expert in your own care, so along with experts in the field, Gabfest combines and elevates the individual voices of the young adult cancer community.

Themes on each day focus on storytelling, wellness, health insurance, caregiving, sexuality & relationships, and more.

Gabfest is open to young adult cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers along with the healthcare providers and nonprofit professionals who care for them. If you’re affected by or work in the field of young adult cancer, this event is for you! 
View the agenda now and don't forget to register today.

Cc logo 20 anniversary

Balancing Work & Cancer Webinar:
Newly Diagnosed - Where to Begin

Wednesday, December 8 at 12 PM CT

Receiving a diagnosis can be overwhelming and the considerations can be numerous. What are the next steps? Getting yourself organized and having a plan can help create a better sense of control over the situation. In this webinar session we will discuss how to go about getting started. Topics will include:

  • Getting organized
  • Creating a plan around balancing work and your diagnosis
  • Decisions around next steps with work and treatment
Stupid Cancer

December Discussion Series: Body Image
Wednesdays at 4 pm CT

Discussion Series are an opportunity to take a deep dive into the most important issues. Join for one session, or participate in the entire month-long series for extended learning and discussion in a group setting.

Learn more and register here.

Dec 1: Adjusting to a Body Change

After cancer treatment, it’s likely that your body looks and feels different…maybe very different. It can be distressing to adjust to the changes, even if they are temporary. Concerns about body image are valid and worthy of attention from your care team. This session will provide an opportunity to discuss how body changes affect your mental health and connect with other young patients/survivors experiencing the same concerns.

Dec 15: Sex & Intimacy: Bringing Sexy Back

As young adults, we all want to look and feel good naked…but there’s nothing like cancer treatment to kill the mood. After treatment, you may have experienced changes to your appearance and sexual function that make it intimidating  to “get back out there.” This discussion will create a safe space to share your concerns and learn from your peers about how to regain comfort and confidence in the bedroom, whether you’re with your new boo, your spouse, or yourself.
Dec 8: Dealing with Others' Perceptions: From "But You Don't Look Sick!" to "It'll Grow Back!"

Whether it’s a “compliment” from your neighbor, a too personal question from your chatty aunt, or a staring child at the grocery store, it can be exhausting to deal with other people noticing or commenting on how your body has changed from cancer treatment. This discussion is a space to share frustrating experiences and learn strategies for navigating these complex social interactions.

Dec 22: Navigating Permanent Changes

If you’ve experienced a permanent change in your appearance because of treatment, you know the effects on your mental health, personal life, and social interactions can be far-reaching. This open discussion for those with disfigurements, amputations, and other facial and bodily differences will provide an opportunity to share stories and learn about resources.


Hearts Need Art Monthly Meet Up
Vision Boards
Tuesday, December 21 at 6 pm CT

Are you a young adult with cancer between the ages of 18-39? Do you enjoy music, art and journaling? Would you like to meet your peers and have fun together? We can’t wait to see you at our Music, Art & Word Meet Up to share and express who you truly are! Our group meets once a month on the second Tuesdays at 6 pm CT. FREE for young adults ages 18 to 39 with cancer, caregivers and family members. Materials needed: Print outs or magazine clippings of goals for the new year, assorted markers or pens and a sheet of paper or card stock. Register here.

Meeting logo
 
What the Holidays Mean to Me Now
 Thursday, December 30 at 6 pm CT 

Perkatory: Brewing Tough Conversations to Help Each Other Face Cancer. The last Thursday of each month we will host a  Zoom meeting at 6:00 pm CT inviting anyone that would like to join our monthly conversations. This month is about What the Holidays Mean to Me Now. Register today.

Research Opportunities

University of Chicago
AYA Oncology Clinic
 
We are offering UChicago AYA oncology patients a survey to take so that we can better understand your cancer diagnosis perspective and experience which will inform our goal of improving supportive care to AYAs. Please email me to receive survey link.
 
Oregon Health & Science University and OCHIN
Understanding the Experiences of Adolescent & Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Survivors
 
Researchers at OHSU and OCHIN want to learn more about the experiences of AYA cancer survivors and give voice to survivors whose stories may not otherwise be heard. Complete a two hour interview and receive a $50 gift cardClick here to take survey
Providing patients and caregivers a voice - Rare Patient Voice
 
Study Opportunities for Patients and Caregivers

Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with the opportunity to voice their opinions through surveys and interviews to improve medical products and services. We currently have over 190 market research studies open for patients and caregivers.  A few of the studies we are working to fill immediately are listed below. Feel free to also share this page with friends or family who may be interested. Become a patient research volunteer today and get paid for your time. Learn more here.

Self-care, Grants & Other Resources

Cancer and Careers Logo
Financial Assistance Grant

The application period for 2021 has re-opened! This program, introduced in 2020, provides a onetime $500 grant for cancer patients and survivors experiencing financial challenges to use toward bills, technology, skill development or training. 

Before beginning an application, we strongly encourage reviewing the Terms and Conditions and Frequently Asked Questions for more information on the process and eligibility. 

Ready to apply? Click here to start the application!
Para rellenar una solicitud en español, haga clic aquí.


Breathe Now Wellness Retreats

 
Open to young adult survivors (age 21-39 years old) and their partners who are one to three years removed from their last day of treatment, Dear Jack Foundation’s Breathe Now Wellness Retreats harness the transformational powers of yoga, meditation, and psychosocial breakout sessions to help couples renew, learn, and grow as they live their lives together post cancer. 

These four-day retreats are professionally guided and thoughtfully designed to foster community and connection, both individually and as a group, through daily yoga and mindfulness practices, psychosocial sessions, and nutritional support, with an emphasis on healing the mind and body. Learn more and view their 2021 Breathe Now Wellness Retreat schedule here.

Nik's Wish Gap
 
Nik's Wish is to bring joy throughout the nation to young adults (18-24) and their loved ones, fighting cancer. The mission of The Nikolas Ritschel Foundation is to enrich the lives, stimulate encouragement, and strengthen the faith of cancer patients who are between 18-24 years old and their loved ones. Learn more about Nik's Wish Gap program and apply today. Application available in Spanish.

What's your dream adventure? The Vy Nguyen Koller Grant is designed to inspire empower young adult cancer survivors to activate their dream trips, embrace the challenges and the beauty of the outdoors, push boundaries and live for today. Named for Send It alumni, this grant is an opportunity to realize the adventures and experiences you dream about, big or small. What is something you have always wanted to accomplish, but need support to get there? What is the ultimate goal, experience, or project you would like to pursue? The Vy Nguyen Koller Grant is available to cancer survivors ages 21-40. View more information and application here.
Imerman Angels

Are you a cancer fighter, survivor, previvor or caregiver looking for one–on–one support?

Imerman Angels partners individuals seeking cancer support with a Mentor Angel — a cancer previvor, survivor or caregiver who has been in their shoes. These one-on-one relationships inspire hope and offer the chance to ask personal questions and receive support from someone who is uniquely familiar with the experience.

The service is absolutely free and helps anyone touched by any type of cancer, at any cancer stage, at any age, living anywhere in the world. Each applicant speaks personally with a staff member of Imerman Angels and all Mentor Angels are properly screened and trained. Learn more and request a mentor!


Are you a cancer fighter, survivor or caregiver looking to provide support to someone touched by cancer by becoming a Mentor Angel?

Learn more here on how to become a Mentor Angel!



Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has a program called First Connection. It’s made up of a team of incredible volunteers who have been through it. They’re survivors, caregivers, parents, spouses, and children of survivors. Request a First Connection Peer here.
First Connection peer volunteers are in a unique position to provide support and community resource information to others facing a similar cancer diagnosis. Patients and their family members are matched with peer volunteers based on diagnosis, age, gender and other factors that might create a mutual understanding and ease of communication. Peer volunteers are trained in basic counseling skills, are regularly updated about LLS and community resources, and are committed to confidentiality.
Cancer Related Podcasts
This is not an exhaustive list; please send any of your favorite recommendations!
  • In partnership with Instagram's @thecancerpatient, we are proud to launch The Cancer Patient Podcast! A podcast for cancer patients, by cancer patients providing information, validation, and connection with a side of humor, sarcasm, and wit.
  • Sexually Speaking: Dr. Anne Katz is a certified sex counselor, clinical nurse specialist, and author. Listen to her Podcast, Sexually Speaking.

  • Beyond Cancer: This podcast series features cancer survivors sharing how they've navigated the physical side effects, emotional challenges, and different dynamics of life during and after cancer treatment.
  • Man Up to Cancer: I'm a stage IV colon cancer survivor, and I have a message for other men: You don't have to go through this alone. Man Up to Cancer inspires men to connect and avoid isolation throughout our cancer journeys. We are changing what it means to “Man Up” in the face of cancer.
  • Your Stories: Conquering Cancer: Listen to candid conversations between people conquering cancer – patients, their family and friends, and doctors and researchers working to help us all.
  • The Stupid Cancer Show: The Stupid Cancer Show is an award-winning international podcast that, across 11 years and more than 400 episodes, has given voice to the young adult cancer movement. Each broadcast tackles hard-hitting, real-world issues ranging from politics, health care, legislative advocacy, civil liberties and the environment to social media, entertainment, cancer research and medical education.
  • Life on Pause: Life On Pause is a podcast for and by young adults living with cancer. Each month, young adult cancer patients from Penn State Health share honestly about their cancer diagnosis, treatment and life afterwards. As cancer causes the group to reflect on issues both large and small, surprisingly relatable stories and themes emerge. From relationships to body functions, nothing is off the table.
  • AYA Cancer Chat: Life Interrupted: Listen in as adolescents and young adults (AYA) from the Cancer Center at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia discuss their experiences with cancer diagnosis and treatment in this podcast, AYA Cancer Chat: Life Interrupted.

Chicagoland Cancer Support Organizations

Located in downtown Chicago

Check out the Virtual Program Calendar, now with over 180 FREE virtual cancer support resources and activities in English and Spanish each month for children, teens and adults!
For information in Spanish: Para más información, por favor comuníquese con  Jasmine Carrazco, jasminecarrazco@gildasclubchicago.org o llame al 312-464-9900.

Best way to Get Started? For more information, visit the website,  email 
info@gildasclubchicago.org or call 312-464-9900.
Located in Homewood and Mokena

Offering full scope of programming including: counseling, nutrition consults, support & networking groups, fitness programs and presentations either in-person, on zoom or by phone. The most up to date program information can be found on our website.

Offering most programs with a hybrid option so participants may attend in person or online.
Wig fittings are in-person and by appointment only at both locations.

Offering Spanish-speaking counseling appointments virtually on a limited-basis. We will also be providing art therapy and fitness videos in Spanish on our website this Fall. Please call either location to learn more.

Best way to Get Started? Call either location and schedule a PPS (Personal Planning Session) with one of our counselors by calling either location: Homewood (708) 798-9171 or Mokena (708) 478-3529 and speaking with a Program Navigator. 
Cancer Wellness Center
Located in Northbrook and Grayslake

In person support services and programs (proof of complete vaccination against covid 19 is required to participate in person): Individual, couples and family counseling, Men’s group, Bereavement group, Soon to have a survivor group in person, Yoga, Nutritional counseling, Some nutrition programs.
Spanish Services and Programs available or call (847) 562-4991.

Virtual support services and programs: All of our programs and services (including counseling and group)  are offered virtually (with the exception of wig boutique which is on hold).

Best way to Get Started?  Call for an initial consultation  (847) 509-9595 or complete the form found on this page.
LivingWell Cancer Resource Center-logo
Located in Geneva

Currently all of LivingWell programs remain virtual with hopes to provide some in-person programming later this fall.   
Programs include: Medical Discussions, Fitness and Yoga, Counseling and Social Work, Survivorship Programs, Stress Management, Art, Nutrition, Support Groups and more.

All of our program information can be found at here or call 630-933-7860.   
Located in Hinsdale

Provides FREE cancer support programs to help you gain strength, manage side effects, and feel less alone.  Over 500 programs per month, online and in-person programs and services — exercise classes, nutrition seminars, support groups, information and education, stress management and more.  Anyone in any location can receive life-changing support!
A selection of online and in-person programs delivered in Spanish with dedicated Spanish-speaking Wellness House staff members. Spanish language classes at Wellness House, visit website here.

Complete list of online and in-person programs. See their Fall 2021 online Program Guide here.

For general information about Wellness House visit the website or call 630.323.5150.

Nationwide Cancer Support Organizations


Cancer and Careers Logo

Cancer and Careers empowers and educates people with cancer to thrive in their workplace, by providing expert advice, interactive tools and educational events. Learn more here. En Español.

Stupid Cancer

Stupid Cancer helps to empower everyone affected by adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer by ending isolation and building community. Learn more here.



Meeting logo

Our mission to help adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients, survivors and caregivers know they are not alone in their fight with cancer. We are the only magazine written for and by the AYA cancer community telling their story in their own words. Learn more here.



formerly Lacuna Loft

Cactus Cancer Society is the leader in online wellness support programs and resources for young adult cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers, enabling them to have the age-appropriate support they deserve through a medium that fits their lifestyle.  Learn more here.

Cancer Dudes
With a scarcity of resources geared specifically to men's unique needs, Cancer Dudes was created to provide education and resources in order for men to successfully move past their cancer experience. Learn more here.
Humor Beats Cancer logo

We are bringing joy and humor to cancer patients, survivors and their caregivers. People share humorous stories from their cancer journeys on our blog. Learn more here.


Hearts Need Art believes in helping to build an equitable community through healing arts provided at no cost to patients and their caregivers. No prior experience necessary. Learn more here.

Cancer is tough and we’re here to help through it all. We have programs to meet all your needs – fitness, nutrition, arts, or just hanging out together. We also inform healthcare providers and educators about AYA cancer. Learn more here.

MAN UP TO CANCER
Man Up to Cancer inspires men to connect and avoid isolation throughout our cancer journeys. We are changing what it means to “Man Up” in the face of cancer. To us, it means knowing we are smarter and stronger as a pack than we are as lone wolves. Learn more here.

Camp & Retreat Opportunities


 

 
First Descents provides life-changing, outdoor adventures for young adults impacted by cancer and other serious health conditions. You can climb, paddle, and surf and connect with others who have similar experiences. Learn more here.

 
True North Treks takes groups of young adults and caregivers affected by cancer from across the US on free backpacking and canoeing treks where they can connect with nature, peers, and themselves. Learn more here.

Project Koru 
Project Koru provides adventure-based experiences such as surfing, canoeing, stand up paddling, and snowboarding for young survivors. Learn more here.

 
Send it Foundation creates outdoor adventures for young adult cancer fighters and survivors, removing them from their cancer experience and creating the space to play, connect, and have fun outdoors. Learn more here.

Image 
Epic Experience provides free, week-long adventures in the Colorado Rockies for adult cancer survivors (over age 18) to help survivors live beyond cancer. Learn more here.

 
The Cassie Hines Shoe Foundation helps young adults with cancer by guiding them to peer support programs, including a free trip to Northern Michigan (Base 2 Summit) and encouraging participation and connection. Learn more here.

 
Camp Mak-A-Dream hosts camp experiences for all ages, including family camp, full of activities and education to help patients understand and cope with cancer. Learn more here.

 
Cancer patients and survivors 18-years-old and older will have the opportunity to swim, hike, and kayak through the Idaho outdoors. 
Lottery Registration Opens January 2022. Learn more here.

Helpful Websites, Tools & Apps

Insight Timer is the #1 free app for sleep, anxiety and stress. Learn more here.
Free Meditation for beginners. Headspace offers tips and audio clips for beginners. Learn more here.
Burnalong is offering a free subscription for online fitness classes for AYAs to exercise in a group setting. Learn more here.
With Caregather, keep friends and family up to date, share ways they can lend a hand, and make it easy for them to send their support. Friends and family want to be there, Caregather will guide your community to the best ways they can support you. Learn more here.

Alula is designed to help patients and their loved ones navigate the most daunting aspects of cancer. With our organizational tools, products, and content, you'll never feel lost or alone. Learn more here.


We're making cancer less lonely
Whether in conversation at your doctor's or a talk over the phone, Abridge records it so you can be more present during the appointment. Review the transcripts to see the medical terms you discussed from symptoms to conditions, procedures to medications. Learn more here.


The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has new interactive 3D images which will help you to visualize and better understand each of the topics, from general treatment, diseases, to lab and imaging! Learn more here.

Some 3D images & topics include, but not limited to:

- Blood Cell Development

- Intrathecal Therapy
- Lymph Node Anatomy
- Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
- Bone Marrow Biopsy and Aspiration


This Smartphone App was designed by the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) nursing team for parents and caregivers of children with cancer. Input from COG experts with recommendations for providing patient and family education was provided. The app is available in both iOS and Android versions and includes the entire contents of the COG Family Handbook and New Diagnosis Guide in searchable format (in English, Spanish and French), as well as features for journaling, appointment tracking, one-touch dialing to the healthcare team, and much more. The content is organized in three phases: Newly Diagnosed, During Treatment, and After Treatment. Download the App.
 

Children’s Oncology Group educational resource: A Diagnosis Guide for Teens and Young Adults (AYA New Diagnosis Guide). This guide was created to help teens and young adults focus on the most important information they need at diagnosis, and includes topics that are of particular interest to AYAs. This teaching tool is intended to be provided to your AYA patients after diagnosis, and before first discharge home from the hospital or clinic. The AYA New Diagnosis Guide is available for download from the COG Public Website and is available in English, Spanish and French.

Financial Assistance Opportunities

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society offers the following financial assistance programs to help individuals with cancer: Co-Pay Assistance Program, Patient Aid Program, Pay-It-Forward Travel Assistance Program, CAR T-Cell Therapy Travel Assistance Program and Urgent Need Program. Learn more here.
The Leukemia Research Foundation offers a one-time grant for eligible patients with a blood cancer diagnosis- Leukemia, Lymphoma, Myeloma, or Myelodysplastic Syndromes. The maximum grant award is $1,500.00 per applicant. Learn more here.
LogoRESIZED2
The Samfund and Expect Miracles Foundation provides grants to 21-39 year olds post-treatment or on maintenance therapy. Learn more here.
the samfund
Cancer Care offers limited financial assistance for cancer-related costs and co-pays, and our professional oncology social workers can help you find additional resources. Learn more here.
The National Organization for Rare Disorders has several financial assistance programs including Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma and Caregiver Respite Program. Learn more here.
The PAN Foundation has several financial assistance programs open including Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, Mantle Cell Lymphoma, Melanoma, and more. Learn more here.
The DAM Cancer Foundation provides financial assistace to young adults ages 18-35 who have cancer and are in need of assistance. Learn more here.
DAM-Cancer
Family Reach can help eligible patients with a grant to help cover non-medical, everyday living expenses, such as mortgage payments, utilities, groceries, and transportation costs. Learn more here.
The Andrew Weishar Foundation provides direct financial assistance to adolescents and young adults battling cancer. Learn more here.
The Patient Advocate Foundation has several financial assistance fund programs available. Learn more here.
The Healthwell Foundation provides financial assistance to the underinsured through grants to help with expenses. Learn more here.

College Scholarship Opportunities

Cancer for College provides scholarships for young adults diagnosed with cancer. Application period is from November 1, 2021 through January 31, 2022Learn more here.
The Simon Cancer Foundation assist cancer patients by awarding scholarships. Application period is October 2021 through January 31, 2022Learn more here.
The National Collegiate Cancer Foundation provides scholarships to young adults impacted by cancer. Application opens in March 2022Learn more here.
The Patient Advocate Foundation awards scholarships to cancer patients. Application period is currently closed. Learn more here.
Patient Advocate Foundation
View our previous newsletters and subscribe here!
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Email
Share Share
Tweet Tweet
Forward Forward
Contact Us!
Copyright © 2021 University of Chicago, AYA Clinic, All rights reserved.


Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Email Marketing Powered by Mailchimp