Teenagers and young adults facing a cancer diagnosis have unique biological, physiological and social needs during treatment. Traditionally little care has been put into place that delivers according to their specific needs at a vulnerable stage in their life. Patients are often either treated alongside children of a younger age, or with adults. Specialised care is required not just in terms of their illness but also in terms of their educational, financial and relationship needs.

To be given a life threatening diagnosis at this stage of life can turn a young persons’ world upside down, disrupting future plans and alienating them from friends. Access to a specialist nurse is vital, addressing issues pertinent to their stage of life, as well as their cancer treatment. Through donations we are able to fund a specialist nurse who is able to see 35 newly diagnosed young adults each year, and also contribute to research in early diagnosis and improvements in survival rate.