In 2008, I was diagnosed with Stage IV Hodgkin Lymphoma. Over the last six years, I have been blessed to have encountered thousands of other cancer survivors, hear their stories and share in their journeys.
I’ve attended numerous cancer related events during my six years of survivorship. They all provide useful content regarding various aspects of the journey to survivorship, but not all of them focus on issues specific to the young adult cancer patient/survivor. Patients 18-39 years old have specific needs that differ from the pediatric and geriatric worlds. Dating and intimacy, careers and finances, fertility and health insurance are just some of the issues we face. Navigating life is hard enough for someone in their 20’s and 30’s WITHOUT facing a cancer diagnosis! Adding missing body parts, port scars, hair loss and fatigue to the mix doesn’t make it any easier.
This is my favorite time of year. Each fall I look forward to shipping up to Boston for “The Art of Living – Life Beyond Cancer” conference hosted by the Friends of Mel Foundation. I really look forward to this event because it covers so many aspects of the cancer experience, including the ones listed above. I hope to see many new faces and look forward to seeing the ones I’ve met previous years.
For more information and to register, please visit: http://friendsofmel.org/conference/
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