Diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 27, Kylie spent the next two years living a very different life than she had anticipated. She had to navigate surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, amongst the many life challenges that come with having cancer as a young adult.
Thanks to the continued generosity of donors, Kylie and other young adults with cancer have access to critical physical and emotional support programs designed specifically for people aged 15 – 39, addressing the very unique challenges they face.
“When you get diagnosed with cancer at a young age, your life just stops. Friends are getting married and having babies. It’s very emotional and difficult,” said Kylie.
Having access to life changing donor-funded counselling services and a peer support group helped Kylie get through this difficult time in her life.
“I get a sense of belonging and relatability from the Young Adult Cancer Support (YACS) group,” she said. “I share what I’ve been through for myself, but also to hopefully help others feel less alone.”
In addition to accessing the mental health resources offered by CancerCare Manitoba’s Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) program, Kylie consulted with the AYA dietitian who guided her through the types of foods she would need to eat to nourish her body throughout months of treatment. She also sought guidance and support from the dedicated clinical nurse specialist for the AYA program.
Prior to being diagnosed with cancer, Kylie had returned to university to pursue her goal of becoming a teacher. Determined not to let the disease stop her, Kylie enrolled in two classes which she completed while undergoing chemotherapy. It was challenging, but she did it through determination, the help of friends and family and donors, ensuring the AYA program continues to assist in her journey.
Without donor support, the cancer experience for young adults like Kylie would be very different.
“Cancer profoundly affects every aspect of life for patients in this unique group, making access to comprehensive resources crucial for effective treatment and emotional support,” said Mackenzie Jansen, clinical nurse specialist for the AYA program. “In my role, I see firsthand how these donor-funded resources enhance patient care and outcomes.”
Thanks to generous donors, CancerCare Manitoba has one of the best and well recognized AYA programs in the country.
Kylie is now cancer-free and thanks to the services of the AYA program donors help fund, she is looking ahead to the future with a renewed sense of hope.
“I’m different now. Cancer has changed me. I’m figuring out what parts of my old life I want to keep and what’s new for me on the horizon,” said Kylie.
To celebrate, she recently took a much-anticipated trip to Greece. She is continuing with school and is looking forward to fulfilling her dream of becoming a teacher.
Committed to giving back to CancerCare Manitoba, Kylie has joined the AYA program as a patient partner where she provides feedback on services offered and connects with other young adults with cancer.
Without donor support, programs and services that address the diverse needs of youth and young adults with cancer would not be possible. Thank you.
