I was 17 when my life drastically changed. I was in my final year of high school, dreaming of studying medicine and hanging out with friends, then one day, I was diagnosed with a rare form of oral cancer. I had undergone a major surgery where I lost the roof of my mouth. That year was brutal. I didn’t recognise myself anymore, physically or emotionally. Friends stopped calling. I felt isolated, ashamed, and like I didn’t belong anywhere.

Since joining Canteen and having my first counselling session, I immediately felt it was what I needed. It was during the Summer Retreat that I met so many of my current friends who understood what it was like. It helped me realise that I wasn’t alone. My cancer was rare, but the pain, confusion and loss we all felt was so real and something we all shared. My time in Canteen gave me the confidence to return to university and study medicine as I always intended. I want to use my experience to help others who are going through tough times.

I still have hard days. I’m still healing, but thanks to the people who helped me find my voice, I know that I’ll never go through it alone ever again.

- Saskia, young cancer survivor

Give young people, like Saskia, a safe space to feel understood, accepted and supported.

Every day, 63 young Aussies have their lives tragically turned upside down by a cancer diagnosis, whether it's their own diagnosis or a family member's. Young people experiencing cancer often feel terrified and alone. Together, we can change that. We can give young people the hope they need, to not just survive their cancer experience, but to thrive.

We need your help to provide life-changing services and support to all young Australians impacted by cancer.