Young Survival Coalition - Address Unique Issues Breast Cancer Survivors Face

Every year, the Young Survival Coalition plans a summit that includes inspirational speakers, workshops that address unique issues that young breast cancer survivors face, and opportunities to connect with fellow survivors. This year it took place in March 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th. One of the topics that was discussed is the experience that the loved one of a cancer survivor goes through. This is one of the lesser talked about subjects: understandably because a lot of attention is focused on treating cancer and managing side effects of those who have cancer. This individuals have come to be known as “co-survivors” who can also experience effects from a cancer diagnosis even though it isn’t their own.

Below is a link to an interesting article written by Pablo Colon who is a Young Survival Coalition board member and went through the experience of his girlfriend being diagnosed with cancer. He discusses some of the hardest aspects from the perspective of a co-survivor. He also discusses resources that he used to help support himself and some resources that he wished he had. He speaks about their experiences together since and some advice that he has for other co-survivors. This might be a relatable article if you have a loved one who has been diagnosed with cancer, or if you are diagnosed with cancer yourself and know that it affects your loved one. Check it out below for a great resource!

https://www.youngsurvival.org/blog/blog/co-survivor/so-your-girlfriends-got-cancer