Resources for Young Adults With Cancer

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 06/2019

Websites

3 Little Birds 4 Life is a nonprofit organization that supports people with cancer between the ages of 18 and 40.

Bite Me Cancer is a nonprofit foundation that focuses on supporting teenagers in their battles against all cancers.

Cancer Support Community offers support and counseling for people with cancer and their families.

CancerCare is a nonprofit organization that provides free professional counseling and educational programs to anyone affected by cancer, including teens and young adults.

CancerMatch is a networking and dating website for cancer survivors.

CureSearch for Children's Cancer funds and supports cancer research for kids and teens and provides information and resources to anyone affected by childhood cancer.

LIVESTRONG provides resources on cancer diagnosis and treatment for young adults, including one-on-one support.

Look Good Feel Better For Teens strives to improve quality of life and self-esteem for teens receiving cancer treatment by providing beauty sessions in group and individual settings.

National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship advocates for quality cancer care and provides resources to cancer survivors who are interested in advocacy.

Nikolas Ritschel Foundation (AKA Nik's Wish) grants wishes for young adults diagnosed with & currently fighting cancer between the ages 18-24.

SaveMyFertility.org provides reliable information on preserving fertility and the ability to have children, before and after cancer treatment.

Stupid Cancer provides information and support for young adults with cancer.

SuperSibs is dedicated to supporting siblings of children with cancer through scholarships, an ambassador program, and a comfort and care program. The program is run by Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.

Teen Cancer America partners with hospitals to develop specialized facilities and services for teens and young adults with cancer.

TeensHealth provides information on cancer and other topics.

The National Children's Cancer Society (NCCS) provides emotional, financial, and educational support to children with cancer, their families, and survivors.

The Samfund provides financial assistance and free online support and education for young adults with cancer.

The Ulman Foundation helps young adult survivors by connecting them with other survivors.

Vital Options is a nonprofit organization that brings together cancer advocates from around the world.

Young Survival Coalition (YSC) is an organization dedicated to the critical issues facing young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. YSC offers resources, connections, and outreach so women feel supported, empowered, and hopeful.

Camps and Retreats

Whether it is a summer camp, a week-long retreat, or a weekend gathering, children, adults, and families can come together at camps specifically designed for people with cancer, survivors, and loved ones. They can have adventures, find support, and learn new things about themselves. Find a camp or retreat for you and your family.

Scholarship and Financial Aid Resources

This list contains links to educational scholarships and financial aid resources for young adult and teen cancer survivors. You might also find scholarships through some of the websites listed above. A social worker can also help you find organizations in your area. Please contact each organization directly for the most current information.

American Cancer Society - Some regional divisions of the ACS offer scholarships for childhood cancer survivors. Contact the ACS to learn about the programs available in your state.

Compassion Can't Wait

Cancer for College

Cancer Survivors' Fund

CollegeScholarships.org

FinAid: Financial Aid for Students with Disabilities

Jackie Spellman Scholarship Foundation - For leukemia and lymphoma survivors and their family members.

LLS Scholarship for Blood Cancer Survivors | Leukemia and Lymphoma Society - For the 2024-2025 academic year, this scholarship provides up to $7,500 to cover tuition for virtual or in-person vocational, two-year, or four-year undergraduate education. 

Michael A. Hunter Memorial Scholarship - For leukemia and lymphoma survivors and their family members.

The Patient Advocate Foundation's Scholarships

The Stephen T. Marchello Scholarship Foundation - For residents of Colorado and Montana

The Ulman Foundation National College Scholarship Program

If your organization offers scholarships for young adults or teenagers with cancer but is not listed here, please call 888-651-3038 or email contactus@cancer.net.

This list is provided for informational purposes only. Cancer.Net and ASCO do not endorse the content, operators, products, or services of such applications and websites and are not responsible directly or indirectly for any damages or injury caused by or in connection with use of any content, products, or services available through third-party applications and websites. As always, be sure to talk with your health care team about any questions you may have about information you find.

Related Resources

Financial Resources

Adolescents and Young Adults (AYAs) with Cancer - National Cancer Institute