Dana-Farber Resources for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Patients
Dana-Farber recognizes that the issues facing a young adult with cancer are different from those facing patients who were diagnosed earlier in childhood or later in adulthood. We are developing resources that will leverage the world-class research and patient care resources of the Institute and its collaborators, and are investigating ways to facilitate care, and coordinate research, training and education focused on the young adult patient population.
We want to make sure young adult patients seen in any Dana-Farber clinic are benefiting from all the resources and expertise we have to offer. We will also be organizing many programs for young adult patients that address their unique needs and issues, regardless of where at Dana-Farber they receive their care. Keep your eyes open on this site and on Dana-Farber for upcoming events. For more information, call Karen Albritton, MD, and Cris Waldron, NP, at (617) 632-2545 or e-mail aya_program@dfci.harvard.edu.
Boston Harbor boat rides
I'm Too Young For This is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping young adults affected by cancer. Come float with us for our annual bash on Boston Harbor.
What: Boat rides in the afternoon on Boston Harbor, followed by a free BBQ, music, raffles, prizes, and, of course, cash bar
Where: The Launch at Marina Bay, Quincy, MA
When: September 12, 2008. Boat rides in afternoon, party from 7:00pm – 11:00pm
Who: Young adults between the ages of 18-39
Why: Why not?
In order to ensure we have enough boats and food, please RSVP either to Tom at (617) 455-7169 or at http://stupidcancer.org/rsvp.
Summer camper sessions
Summer camp sessions through First Descents are still available and applications can be found at www.firstdescents.org/cms/Apply/Apply/tabid/74/Default.aspx.
The Wyoming Mountaineering program is scheduled to take place from Aug. 30 – Sept. 4, 2008. This program is currently accepting applications for all cancer survivors between the ages of 18 and 40. Program is designed for beginners. Travel costs and camp fees are 100 percent covered by First Descents, the facilitator of the event.
The Kayaking program is scheduled to take place from Sept. 6 – 13, 2008, in California. This program is currently accepting application for all cancer survivors between the ages of 18 and 40. Program is designed for beginners. Travel costs and camp fees are 100 percent covered by First Descents, the facilitator of the event.
Both programs are still accepting male applicants.
Yoga Event
All Dana-Farber young adult patients between the ages of 15 and 40 are invited to enjoy free yoga sessions. This will be a time of linking mindful breathing with peaceful movement, creating a unique opportunity for amazing individual growth. This class is appropriate for beginners.
When
October 18, 2008
(These classes occur quarterly.)
Time
5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Where
Exhale Spa in Back Bay
28 Arlington Street
Boston, Mass.
Who
Any Dana-Farber patient between the ages of 15 - 40.
Contact
(617) 632-2545
These events are sponsored by the Dana-Farber AYA Program and Exhale Spa®.
The Lance Armstrong Foundation Podcasts
The Livestrong alliance has developed a Podcast Series for Young Adults with Cancer. Hear firsthand from other young adult cancer survivors as they share their experiences and advice about a wide variety of cancer-related issues and concerns. Each episode focuses on a specific topic you need to know to live life on your own terms, no matter where you are in your cancer experience.
Each video is 5 – 7 minutes long and relays important information about common physical, emotional and practical concerns. Shared through the experiences and insight of young adult cancer survivors, every topic addresses the unique needs of young adults with cancer. Many topics also include a list of action items that survivors can consider to address their concerns, as well as a list of cancer-related organizations survivors can contact for additional support.
