A COMMUNITY COMING TOGETHER
We are a community of healthcare workers and advocates from Fort Worth, TX leading the way to help adolescents and young adults (AYAs) diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 15 and 39.
With your help, we can educate, inspire, and comfort those who need it
WHO WE ARE
We are a community of healthcare professionals, young adult cancer survivors, their families, advocates, and passionate volunteers.
WHAT WE DO
Our coalition works together to improve the lives of adolescents and young adults (AYAs), ages 15 to 39, diagnosed with cancer in our community.
WHY IT MATTERS
AYAs face unique medical barriers and psychosocial issues that, when not addressed, can have devastating short and long-term consequences.
A Guide For Young People Facing Cancer
So, you have cancer. Now What…?
Whether you have just been diagnosed, are already receiving treatment, or have completed most of your treatment, there are probably so many things running through your head all at the same time — questions, feelings, new thoughts —
As hard as it might be to focus on anything, there are a few things that might help you get a better handle on the situation.
This book is designed to help you get a handle on some of what is going on and give you some tips for dealing with the massive challenges your cancer diagnosis has thrown at you.
AYA CANCER IS DIFFERENT
Every year, almost 90,000 AYAs are diagnosed with cancer in the United States.
Approximately 500 are diagnosed in and around Fort Worth.
That’s 8X the number of pediatric patients.
Unlike children, however, there has been a limited focus on the AYA population.
The consequences are significant. In addition to a lack of available age-relevant support and resources, eye-opening data has revealed that survival rates for many AYA cancers have not significantly improved in more than three decades.
DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER IN THE U.S. EACH YEAR
DIAGNOSED IN & AROUND FORT WORTH EACH YEAR
YEARS SINCE THERE'S BEEN A SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT IN SURVIVAL
MINUTES BEFORE ANOTHER AYA IS DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER
CANCER IS THE NO. 1 CAUSE OF DISEASE-RELATED DEATHS IN AYAS
OUR AYA INPATIENT UNIT & INFUSION CENTER
In May 2016, our coalition opened America’s first community-supported AYA oncology inpatient unit and infusion center for patients ages 18 to 29.
Located inside Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center – Fort Worth, the unit provides an age-relevant treatment “home” for young adults, ages 18 to 29, diagnosed with cancer in our community.
What the Fort Worth Adolescent and Young Adult Coalition has achieved is a good practice model for the region’s young people with cancer, one that will be the envy of community hospitals throughout the USA.
I commend the Fort Worth community’s spirit of collaboration, for delivering a world-class facility and most of all, for putting young patients and their families first.
I’M AN AYA
Were you diagnosed with cancer between 15 and 39 years old?
Whether you’re looking for information, resources, support, or encouragement, we have what you need.
I’M A PROVIDER
AYA cancer is different from cancer in other aged patients. This population has unique needs, and we’re here to help you provide your best care to them.
I’M A SUPPORTER
We are a community of professionals, advocates, survivors, volunteers, and people like you. Learn how you can get involved.
AYA STORIES
AYA Support Advice | Keeping A Level Head
AYA Support Advice - Remain Positive And Continue To Promote Healthy Interactions Being able to maintain your emotional health during this time is trial and error. We know that in light of everything going on and the amount of support we receive, we should be...
Meeting Others With AYA Cancer | Value of Shared Experiences
TJ Hutchings | Meeting Others With AYA Cancer Growing up in a single-parent home, TJ Hutchings didn't have the luxury of knowing that education after high school was guaranteed. He knew that he'd have to create his own path to college. The three-sport athlete hoped...
AYA Cancer Challenge | Danadia’s Journey
AYA Cancer Challenge When Danadia Johnson kept falling asleep at school, she thought something might be wrong. When she couldn't stay awake in science, her favorite class, she knew it was time to see a doctor. Following a doctor's visit, Johnson's symptoms grew...
Our Partners
Give Today
Contact Us
Fax: 817-698-8471