PROGRAMS & ORGANIZATIONS
There are many resources out there and a multitude of organizations available to assist you in your cancer fight. Please see some of our favorites, below. The information on this website is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the crucial role your medical team plays in your care and decision making.
American Cancer Society aims to rid the world of cancer. They fund research and support patients and survivors through their many programs and resources. Their website is a wealth of knowledge valuable for any cancer fighter.
Believe Big is a nonprofit organization founded by a Stage IV colon cancer survivor. They aim to encourage cancer fighters to “Face it, Fight it, and Overcome it.” They are also a resource for alternative and complementary treatments including mistletoe, for which they are working to fund a clinical trial.
Bristol Myers Squibb is a pharmaceutical company focused on creating new medicines to fight disease, including cancer. Their website includes a section for patients and caregivers to seek more information on their medicines and includes resources on paying for medication.
Cancer + Careers provides advice, educational opportunities, and other resources to help young adult cancer survivors continue to thrive in their careers despite a cancer diagnosis.
Cancercare is a nationwide nonprofit which provides supportive services to those fighting cancer. Look under “Help by Topic” for information and support specific to young adults.
Cancer.Net is a website published by the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the Conquer Cancer Foundation. They share resources for patients and caregivers that are “oncologist approved.”
Cure publishes a magazine chalked full of great information for cancer fighters. Their website is a fantastic resource where you can sort by cancer type to find relevant articles to your diagnosis. Sign up for their newsletter, subscribe to their magazine, or just search their site for answers to many of your cancer-related questions.
First Descents is an outdoor adventure program for young adult cancer fighters and survivors (ages 18-39). Founded by the nephew of a young adult cancer fighter, this nonprofit brings survivors together at amazing destinations for challenging outdoor pursuits.
Imerman Angels is a nonprofit organization focused on helping cancer fighters make one on one connections with a “mentor angel” who shares their diagnosis. Visit their website to get connected with an angel who can provide support for survivors and caregivers alike.
Inheritance of Hope is a nonprofit aimed at inspiring hope in families facing the loss of a parent. They create lasting memories at retreats geared at supporting and uplifting families who are dealing with the terminal diagnosis of a parent. Uplifting and inspiring, they focus on leaving a legacy while also cherishing each day and fighting for more.
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is working to find cures for blood cancers while also increasing patient access to treatments. Their website is a wealth of information for anyone battling a blood cancer such as leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and myeloma.
Live For Today Foundation is a nonprofit founded by a young adult cancer survivor. Their programs “create adventure, encourage new experiences, uplift through support, and inspire a healthy lifestyle.” They help survivors “focus on living, not cancer.” Visit their website to learn more about how you can participate.
Livestrong is a nonprofit organization whose mission is focused on improving the lives of all people affected by cancer. They have many programs that are implemented across the country (see the link below regarding their partnership with the YMCA) as well as resources for cancer patients and caregivers on their website.
Livestrong at the YMCA is a free or low cost program geared towards cancer survivors which provides personalized fitness programs from instructors trained in cancer survivorship. While survivors are in the program, they, and their families, receive free YMCA membership. The nearest participating YMCA in the Lowcountry is located in Summerville.
National Cancer Institute is a fantastic resource for those looking for more information on their diagnosis and treatment options. The leader in cancer research, NCI’s website contains information on clinical trials, advances in the fight against cancer, and countless resource for patients and their caregivers. This is a great place to start when arming yourself with knowledge for the fight.
Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy is a collaborative effort between the top researchers and hospitals working to utilize immunotherapy to win the fight against cancer. What was once considered a last resort, immunotherapy holds great promise for effective treatments against many cancer diagnoses. If you are considering immunotherapy as part of your treatment protocol, this is a great place to gather more information.
SamFund provides financial support to young adult cancer survivors through grants. Visit their website to see their resources and apply for grants to assist with the staggering costs of fighting cancer as a young adult.
Stand Up to Cancer is a fundraising effort with the entertainment industry behind it. Monies raised fund research and help move us closer to a cure. Visit their site to learn more about their fundraising efforts, read about their dream teams for each diagnosis, and see how you can get involved. There are great resources for various cancer diagnoses as well.
Stupid Cancer is a nonprofit organization with the goal of making young adult cancer “suck less” as their website proclaims. Founded ten years ago, they are working to serve the underserved demographic of young adults with cancer through advocacy, awareness, support, research, and more. Visit their site. They get it.
Ulman Cancer Fund is a nonprofit organization founded by a young adult cancer survivor. Their website is a wealth of information for young adults fighting cancer. They also offer college scholarships to survivors and their family members. Click here for the scholarship application.
Vital Options International works to foster dialogue and communication in the global cancer fighting community. Their website includes information on living with cancer, advocacy, and more.
Young Survivors Coalition is an organization focused on meeting the unique needs of young women diagnosed with breast cancer. Their website includes many ways for young women with breast cancer to get connected with one another.