How your support can make a difference
At 18, Tara was diagnosed with cancer, and her life was completely turned upside down. This left her feeling confused and alone, thinking “Am I just a girl with cancer?”.
Last year she attended Canteen's Thrive Program - an overnight program for young people aged 18-25 who have completed cancer treatment or are in the middle of it.
"Thrive enabled me to connect and relax in simple social situations that can sometimes feel difficult. Like having lunch or just hanging out with people. I cherish that kind of connection. Something I had wondered if I would ever feel again post my cancer diagnosis. Something I doubt I would have ever felt in a long time without this program." - Tara, now 21
The program taught her not only how to survive cancer, but how to Thrive after cancer. Will you please give another young person like Tara, the opportunity to thrive after cancer crashes into their life? Your gift will truly make a difference.
Tara's Story
"Back in 2022, I was just living my life when I started feeling really off. I thought it was COVID or my asthma acting up, but my health went downhill. It was really scary. After many appointments and tests, I received the call I was dreading. In the car with my family, I was told I had Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Mum started crying straight away, but I didn’t even know what “lymphoma” was. It wasn’t until I heard the word “cancer” that I realised it wasn’t good.
I felt like my world had turned upside down. As soon as I was diagnosed, my family started grieving. I felt guilty for causing them pain, and I spent so much time comforting them. It was ages before I really began to process what was happening to me. But then I heard about Canteen. They were all about recognising me, Tara, the person behind the patient.
Their tailored support ensured that every bit of help was based on what was best for me. Even when I didn’t know what I needed, my key worker, Elyssa, did. She listened and advocated for me when I kept insisting I was fine.
I felt seen and heard, never judged. I’ve grown so much over the last couple of years and have experienced things I didn’t think possible after my cancer treatment. I’m beyond grateful for the opportunities Canteen has given me."
Why we need a cancer survivorship program
Up to two thirds of young cancer survivors experience long-term or late effects of their cancer treatment. This includes, but is not limited to, mobility and physical impairments, changes in lifestyle, relationships, work and/or education. Research highlighted that many feel unprepared to face the survivorship phase of their cancer experience and fear potential cancer recurrence.
That's where Thrive comes in. As well as giving young people some time away from cancer to relax, reflect and be themselves, it allows them to participate in therapeutic group sessions facilitated by Canteen psychosocial staff and attend workshops delivered by experts fertility, nutrition and career development.
After reviewing data from a recent Thrive program, participants found Thrive useful in:
- Feeling more supported in their survivorship journey
- Improving their knowledge of wellness skills and strategies
- Increasing their confidence in managing difficulties in their journey
"Even the first day was amazing. Without having spoken to anyone yet, knowing everyone around me knew what I’ve been through was incredible. And I can only describe that feeling as relief." — Tara.
Thank you for your support
If you'd prefer to donate over the phone or would like more information, our Supporter Care Team is ready to help. Based in Sydney, they’re available 9am-5pm AEST Monday to Friday on us on 1800 639 614 or email candofamily@canteen.org.au