AYA Resources

Peer Connection

In-person and Online Cancer-Specific Communities

Connect with other young adults online or through apps.

General AYA Programs (not cancer site specific)

• YACC Young Adult Cancer Canada - Supporting young adults living with, through, and beyond cancer. YACC is here to be the connection to peers, bridge out of isolation, and source of inspiration. Every cancer, every stage, YACC’s got your back.
• AYA CAN - Want to meet people who just "get it"? Stupid Cancer Meetups are social gatherings for the adolescent and young adult community.
• Cactus Cancer Society - They provide a safe space where young adults (ages 18-45) facing cancer can connect, cope, and thrive with one another in an online community through creativity and expression. We want to end isolation for young adults facing cancer.
• Cancer Dudes - Opportunity to connect with survivors and patients identifying as male for monthly hangouts.
• Pink Pearl Canada - Their Peer Support Program provides one-on-one support for self-identifying young women with any type of cancer diagnosis, at any stage of diagnosis and treatment. This program is designed for you to be paired with a peer mentor to feel safe and supported while you navigate your cancer diagnosis.
• Queering Cancer - Working to transform cancer care for the sexual and gender diverse (SGD) community by improving research, resources, and support for patients, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
• Cancer Fight Club - Connect with other young adults by joining its online community and forum discussions.
• Gilda's Club: Toronto, Barrie - In person and online programming for people with cancer including a support group for AYAs.

Cancer Site Specific Programs

• Brain and CNS Cancer - Learn about the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada's Online Community.
• Lymphoma Canada - Lymphoma Canada connects patients, their family and friends, medical professionals, researchers, volunteers, and donors to build a strong lymphoma community.
• Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada: Peer-to-Peer Support - The Patti Robinson Kaufmann First Connection Program offers a peer-to-peer support program, linking newly diagnosed patients and their families with trained volunteers who have shared similar experiences.
• Testicular Cancer Canada - Sign-up to connect with other peers either over the phone, through email, or face-to-face. You will have the opportunity to speak with someone who understands more about what you're going through.
• Rethink Breast Cancer - Rethink Breast Cancer’s mission is to empower young people worldwide who are concerned about and affected by breast cancer through innovative education, support and advocacy.
• PYNK Program - PYNK is a special program designed for women aged 40 and younger newly diagnosed with breast cancer.

In Person and Online Retreats

• Brooksong Retreat and Cancer Support Network - In person and online retreats for people of all ages living with cancer.
• Young Adults with Cancer Canada Retreat Yourself - 4 day retreats for AYAs impacted by cancer.
• First Descents - Outdoor adventures for Young Adults impacted by cancer (open to Canadians, held in the USA).
• Pink Pearl Retreats - Day-long or overnight retreats for young women impacted by cancer.
• On the Tip of the Toes Foundation: fight against cancer - Therapeutic outdoor adventures for young adults (up to 39 years old) who are going through cancer treatment or have had cancer treatment within the last 5 years.