Stichting Jongeren en Kanker

Supporting adolescents & young adults with cancer

Mission:

‘Stichting Jongeren en Kanker’ (SJK) is committed to supporting adolescents and young adults (AYA) between the ages of 18 and 35 that have (or had) cancer and their loved ones. The charity does this by organizing (online) events, their own magazine, which provides helpful information and options. Together with the National AYA ‘Young & Cancer’ Care Network and colleagues from the NFK (Dutch Federation of Cancer Patients Organizations), SJK represents the interests of good support and care.

Why It Matters:

Dealing with cancer can turn lives upside down – especially for adolescents and young adults. While friends are busy finishing their studies, planning vacations, traveling the world, or starting a family, the life of a cancer patient is put on hold.  In the process of cancer treatment, including therapy, doctor appointments, hospitals, and recovery, adolescents and young adults often find themselves in a tough and isolating spot. Adolescents and young adults with cancer are too old for the children’s ward, but always the youngest in the regular cancer care center. Stichting Jongeren en Kanker aims to help young people navigate this difficult time and create a community where they feel less alone.