When I was 10, my younger sister Matilda passed away from cancer. In an instant, my entire world fell apart. Matilda wasn’t coming home ever again. 

After she passed away, I didn’t know how to feel. I was angry, confused, and felt like nobody really understood what I was going through. It wasn’t until years later, with Canteen’s support, that I learned grief looks different for everyone.

When I was 15, the sadness started to feel too heavy to carry on my own. I remember wondering if others like me were out there who’d lost a sibling. Were they feeling alone, too?

I reached out to Canteen, and straight away, I felt supported. I met others who understood exactly what I was going through. I no longer felt alone. I have friends who just get it, counselling when I need to speak to someone, and a community behind me.

Losing Matilda was the most painful thing I’ve ever experienced. I miss her so much every day. But in Canteen, I’ve found a place where I can share memories of her and my sadness without feeling alone. That means more to man than I can ever say. Thank you

- Rosie-May, who lost her sister to cancer

You can help ensure young people like Rosie-May feel supported, connected, and not alone

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.