New support initiative launched for local young cancer patients

Cansa has unveiled an inspiring initiative to commemorate Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, which takes place this month.

The initiative is aimed at making a significant impact on the lives of mid-adolescents and young adults (AYA) between the ages of 13 and 25 who are facing the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.

According to Cansa’s head of marketing and communications, Lucy Balona, the Free2Bme programme is a beacon of hope and support tailored to meet the unique needs of young individuals on their cancer journey.

She said navigating the uncharted waters of adolescence can be demanding.

ALSO READ: Cansa volunteers give inspiring stories to local survivours

“When combined with a cancer diagnosis, it poses an even greater set of challenges.

“Cansa carefully designed the Cansa Free2Bme programme to address these challenges head-on, providing a platform where AYA individuals can find a community, resources, and inspiration to help them embrace their individuality and confidently overcome the hurdles that come with cancer,” explained Balona.

Mariska Schultz (27) was 15 when doctors diagnosed her with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

“This first year with cancer had to be the worst for me, as everything was new and uncertain. I lost a lot of friends because I was not in school for days and later weeks at a time.”

Her cancer journey lasted four years.

“For a long time, I didn’t talk about it. However, after a while, I changed my mind and embraced what had happened to me.

“Having a programme that supports teenagers and young adults would have empowered me to handle the stresses, family and emotional aspects of this disease a lot better,” she added.

With an emphasis on holistic well-being, Cansa’s Free2Bme offers information, activities and services that foster personal growth, emotional resilience and social connections.

ALSO READ: Cansa volunteers give inspiring stories to local survivours

From coping strategies and self-care practices to online support groups that encourage open dialogue and shared experiences, Cansa is committed to nurturing an environment where young warriors can thrive despite their circumstances.

Fortune Monama (21) is an undergraduate in biological science at the University of the Witwatersrand.

He was 12 when doctors diagnosed him with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and spent nine months in hospital.

He said the journey has taught him patience, courage and hope.

“We understand that being diagnosed with cancer as an adolescent or young adult can be challenging while facing everyday life,” said Anina Meiring, national manager of childhood cancer service at Cansa.

According to Meiring, in 2019 almost 800 females below the age of 25 years were diagnosed with cancer comprising 1,8% of all female-related cancer.

ALSO READ: Local beauty queen raises funds for CANSA

“With the programme, we aim for adolescents and young adults to feel supported and prepared while undergoing treatment or continuing life as a cancer survivor.

“Cansa can support young people diagnosed with cancer to cope and understand the disease, diagnoses, treatment, and challenging psychosocial experiences during treatment and beyond.”

The launch of the programme marks an exciting milestone for the organisation as it strengthens its mission to promote awareness, education, and support for those affected by cancer.