When a young adult is diagnosed with cancer, the world as they know it starts to spin. Information is flying at them from all directions and there are serious decisions to be made that could dramatically affect their health and future and potentially, their life. Of course most people are offered support by their doctors and nurses, friends, family and co-workers but the diagnosed still, ultimately, feel alone. After all, they are the one who has just learned that there is poison in their body that is threatening the life they've always known. That chemotherapy could jeopardize their dreams of parenthood. That their intimate relationships may change forever based on the impact their treatment may have on their physical appearance. It was out of this feeling of loneliness that one woman created a support group called Young Empowered Survivors in 2003.

Since its inception, Young Empowered Survivors has grown to provide support to hundreds of young adults (generally under the age of 45) in all stages of cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery. The issues that young adults face as they undergo cancer diagnosis and treatment are unique. Through an internet group page and monthly support meetings, YES! provides a safe, supportive environment that allows members to discuss these issues. The group focuses on support, empowerment, and sharing perspectives and resources so that its members never have to feel alone.

Member Julie Borgerding says, "I was diagnosed with breast cancer just a few weeks before my 34 th birthday. When I first spoke to Kellie Layer, the President of YES, it was the first time since my diagnosis that I had spoken to a survivor. I could tell from her voice that she was strong, yet fun loving and kind. We arranged for a meeting. When we hung up the phone, I promised myself that I would somehow make myself a resource for other newly diagnosed ladies as soon as I could. During our 15 minute conversation, she helped me emotionally more than anyone had thus far. A few days later I had the chance to meet Kellie and another member of the group, Wendy Rostan, who was only one 8 days out from having the same procedure with the same doctor that I was scheduled to have in 3 days. Is there any better resource than that?

The monthly meetings have been helpful because I don't have to be the strong one there. I don't have to put on my "it's going to be OK" face for my 4- and 5-year old daughters. I didn't have to act like I'm not scared for my husband's sake. I can feel all of these emotions and the others just understand. I know that I will be a member of YES! for as long as it's around."

Member Sabrina Wright-Hobart shares, "I was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 37. I quickly found a cancer support group which was helpful but I felt somewhat disconnected from the group because the people were all much older than me and did not have many of the same issues and concerns that I did. Luckily, I then found Young Empowered Survivors.

YES! has provided me a sense of community and belonging. The sense of isolation and confusion that I felt upon my cancer diagnosis was greatly relieved by my connection with this group. They continued to support me through my surgery and treatment and allowed me to help other cancer patients through emotional support and volunteer opportunities. I am proud to be a Young Empowered Survivor and am thankful to the founders of YES! for recognizing the unique needs of young cancer patients by forming this group and giving us the opportunity to connect with one another."

If you are a young adult who has been diagnosed with cancer, please contact Young Empowered Survivors at (303)477-2161.