"Cancer? You've got to be kidding me. After the shock, it was time to learn, and fight."
- Gabriele, age 17
Resources for New Patients
One of the hardest places emotionally to be is the very beginning. Hearing the word, cancer, is not in a routine day. Where do you turn? What does it mean for you and your family? Am I dying? Our resources for newly diagnosed patients and the loved ones helping to manage your care offer facts, and support. Arm yourself with the information you and your doctor are discussing. Become an active, educated part of your care team, and empower yourself.
NCCN Guidelines for Patients®: Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer (2017)
This patient guide to cancer care is produced by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN ®). NCCN is an alliance of 27 of the leading cancer centers in the United States. The mission of NCCN is to improve cancer care so people can live better lives. This particular guidebook is designed for AYAs (adolescents and young adults) dealing with cancer. It may also be useful for caregivers, family, and friends. The purpose of the book is to help you help absorb what your doctors have said and prepare for treatment. As you read, you also may find it helpful to create a list of questions to ask your doctor.
Helpful Links
Imerman Angels / Request a Mentor
Created on the belief that no one should have to face cancer alone and without the necessary support. Both patients and care providers may request a mentor who has been there, and can help you in your cancer journey.
If you are just starting down this road or have been traveling it for awhile, this section will be helpful. "In it you will find explanations of everything humanly possible that could be done to you. Poking, prodding, scanning, sticking, dripping, radiating – you name it, they will find a way to do it. And to make matters worse, they speak in tongues!"
Moffitt Cancer Center's Adolescent & Young Adult Program
Moffitt’s AYA Program exists to help young adult patients and their families to manage the emotional toll of their cancer, receive access to cutting edge clinical trials, state-of-the-art care, discuss and understand cancer treatment and its fertility risks and options, and to connect with others facing cancer and coping with similar issues.
Critical Mass offers advice for newly diagnosed young patients, videos, links to resources and a downloadable sheet to take to appointments.
LIVESTRONG's website provides a wide range of content, videos, and links to many resources for patients and families.
This section includes Types of Cancers in Young People, Finding a Doctor and Hospital, Treatment Choices, Coping and Support, After Treatment and Support Organizations.
The NCCN is a not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers. This link offers their latest guidelines for AYA patients in a PDF booklet, incuding illustrations and a glossary to help you talk to your doctor.