In-Between

A Space for Adolescent Young Adult Cancer Survivors Mental Well-Being

EVENT PROPOSAL

HELLO, COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT

I’m a Yoga therapist, integrative oncology advocate, and young adult cancer survivor.

I’m Amelia.

I’m also passionate about the ways mindful self-compassion can support each of us in developing a kind, inner voice and why this matters for our health and healing.

My work focuses largely on how mind body medicine can support mental well-being in young adult cancer survivors, and finding innovative ways to bridge the gaps in survivorship care for young people whose lives are changed by cancer.

Learn more about me here.

Mental Health Resources a

Top, Unmet Need for AYAs

INCREASED CANCER RATES REQUIRES ACCESS TO ADEQUATE RESOURCES AND CARE

The American Cancer Society estimates that in the year 2023, there will be 85,980 new cases of Adolescent Young Adult (AYA) cancers in the United States. This unique group faces a number of health disparities (race/ethnicity, gender, economics, etc.) and quality of life issues (peer support, social isolation, finances, career interruption, sexuality, fertility, etc.) related to cancer that can affect disease outcome, survival rates, and coping with the distressing side effects of cancer.

With young adult cancer rates at their highest in three decades, survivors need solutions that help to manage long term, cancer-related morbidities such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress.

57%

LIKELY TO DEVELOP DEPRESSION

29%

LIKELY TO DEVELOP ANXIETY

56%

LIKELY TO DEVELOP PSYCHOTIC DISORDER

Source

Supporting the

Space In-Between

Emerging research shows that mind-body modalities such as meditation, mindfulness, and self-compassion, offer practical and relevant coping skills that support unique cancer-related psychosocial needs and mental well-being in AYAs who are in-between key developmental life milestones.

When integrated with talk-therapy, mind body tools and practices also help AYAs to better manage the physiological effects of stress as they navigate the complex challenges of survivorship, leading them to practice healthier behaviors that can improve quality of life as needs evolve and change over time.

Event Overview

We are pleased to share a kick off event with young survivors to explore what it means to create access to whole-person, mental health care for AYA cancer survivors. Gather in community with fellow young survivors for an immersive experience to explore how to meet the unique mental health needs in AYA survivorship care. Our time together will include conversation, peer support, a nourishing meal and guided meditation. This event is free to attend and will be facilitated by a licensed mental health therapist, and AYA survivor and Yoga Therapist.

The purpose of this event is to explore innovative solutions that center the patient voice and address the needs of young survivors by thoughtfully integrating mental health support, mind body practices and supportive community.

Intentions

Cultivate a community of AYA survivors to assess need, interest and engagement around AYA mental health solutions

Share how integrative health can support and improve the mental, emotional and physical wellbeing in the lives of young people affected by cancer

Explore whole person models of care for AYAs and identify key community partners

Integrate feedback and findings to expand broader vision of this care model to support AYA mental health programs and services

Gathering

FALL 2023

LUBAR ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER

6:00 - 8:00 PM

50 seats open to cancer survivors ages 18 - 39

Share the invite with an AYA!

Collective Care

WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR COMMUNITY PARTNERS AND SPONSORS TO MAKE THIS POSSIBLE.

Creating whole-person, integrative care to support the mental health of AYA cancer survivors is made possible with the generous support of community partners. Your support is an act of collective care that will help us achieve our vision to reduce the barriers to mental health care for AYA cancer survivors.

As a gesture of our gratitude, we will elevate your work by:

Using your company name and logo placement on printed and digital media for the event
Verbally recognize you at the event
Shout outs on social media posts related to the event
Photo recap of the event for you to share on your platforms

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

$250

$500

$1,000

$2,500

$5,000

$10,000

IN-KIND SUPPORT

Food and Beverage

Venue or Space

Wellness Services

Health and wellness Swag Bag