Growing Up with Cancer Project (2010) What’s it like having to deal with cancer AND with growing up?

Abstract

The transition from childhood to adulthood is a period of promise and growth that encompasses every facet of life. It leads to an independent conception of one’s place in the world. Cancer severely disrupts this development and can turn a young person’s world upside down. Cancer illness, hospitalisation and treatment impact on psychosocial well-being at this critical stage, which can have a prolonged impact on the lives of young cancer survivors. These young people need services that are developmentally appropriate, and recognise the impact of cancer on the development of identity and the transition to adulthood. CanTeen, the Australian Organisation for Young People Living with Cancer, has made significant headway in this area with the establishment of Youth Cancer Services in major cancer centres across Australia. The services provide specialist treatment for both the medical and psychosocial needs of young people with cancer. We also realise the importance of raising community awareness of these needs, and are delighted to be involved in the Growing Up with Cancer project and this exhibition. The project is a bold undertaking that has enabled young people who have experienced cancer to create self-portraits that communicate the issues they face as they negotiate cancer during this significant stage of life.