Young adults exude boundless optimism, idealism, and a sense of indestructibility. Cancer, however, robs them of this perspective. They face the complex practical issues of independence, personal finance, and education or career interruption as well as taxing emotional concerns such as dating, fertility, and hopelessness. Our program addresses areas of cancer support, advocacy, and education specific to young adults dealing with cancer.

The first and only support service of its kind, our Comprehensive Support Program for Young Adults Affected by Cancer (CSP) offers a support network that addresses the unique needs of this population, including:

 

• UCF Clinical Trial Matching Service powered by Emerging Med
  
  
• Support & Networking Groups
• College Scholarships
• Survivor's & Loved Ones Network
• Survival Guide, No Way It Can’t Be:
  A Guidebook for Young Adults Facing Cancer
• Speakers Bureau
• Patient Advocate/Navigator Program
• Education and Prevention
  • College Curriculum
  • High School Curriculum
  • Middle School Curriculum

Additionally, UCF provides community grants to grassroots organizations that focus on bridging the gap in psychosocial services available for adolescents and young adults. Our Visionary Grants program looks for both traditional and novel approaches to support this underrepresented population. Visit our Visionary Grants section of the website to review guidelines and obtain an application.

Tori was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in April 2003. Attending college away from home, she traveled to all of her appointments alone, including a lengthy drive each month to see a specialist. Toni’s health and emotional well-being deteriorated, and she returned home to recover. On her arrival, she cared for her sister, who suffers from MS, and began working at a daycare facility. Tori found within herself a sense of empathy and determination she didn’t realize she possessed before her diagnosis, and she continually strives to instill all she’s gained in others. Read Toni's story and more at The Voices of Survivorship.
- Tori Morgan

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Voices of Survivorship