helping young adult cancer survivors live their best lives!
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), an estimated 85,980 adolescents and young adults (AYAs) will be diagnosed with cancer in the United States in 2023. Most of these young adults have never navigated anything even closely resembling cancer treatment. What many don't realize is that after treatment, a new set of challenges arise. Survivor Squad provides support every step of the way from diagnosis through remission and life after cancer.
“Out of difficulties grow miracles…” - Jean de la Bruyere
2019 Valley Children’s Hospital Donation, Fresno, California
Our Mission | Survivor Squad provides resources to support survivors as they recover from the financial, emotional, and physical tolls treatment takes on patients and their families. In addition to financial assistance for academic programs, fertility treatments, and medical debt relief. Survivor Squad also offers emotional support in the form of both peer mentoring and professional counseling.
2021 Survivor Surf Camp, Newport Beach, California
Peer Mentoring | We want all of our survivors to know that they are not in it alone! One of the best ways to heal is by sharing your experiences with peers who have gone through the same struggles through peer mentoring. We host eve like the Annual Survivor Surf Camp in Newport Beach, California, aimed at connecting survivors who may have never met otherwise. Together we all learn new skills and build friendships and bonds that last a lifetime. We encourage active communication, group participation, and just having fun!
Oncofertility | Cancer and subsequent treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, can negatively affect future fertility in both men and women. For young adults who may hope to start a family post- cancer, preservation is imperative. Survivor Squad works with the Oncofertility Departments of local hospitals to provide financial assistance for patients for their fertility preservation treatments. Recently, we have partnered with the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) to fund research efforts in cutting edge cryopreservation methods.
Education | One of the best ways for young adults to re-assimilate is by returning to school. Survivor Squad provides financial assistance for students who wish to complete their GED, go to a 4-year university, or attend a trade school. Returning to school can be mentally challenging, so we also provide admission counseling and tutoring programs to make sure the transition back to school is smooth and successful for survivors