The Youth Cancer Service at Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital (RBWH) is introducing a new program that helps young people with cancer stay connected to the activities, relationships and interests that are central to their lives. 

Delivered by a dedicated allied health clinician, the program will provide personalised support, creative activities and opportunities for peer connection, helping young people maintain confidence, independence and a sense of identity throughout cancer treatment. 

By focusing on participation as well as medical care, the initiative aims to support young people to stay connected with education, work, friendships and everyday life during and beyond treatment. 

A cancer diagnosis during adolescence or young adulthood affects far more than physical health. At a time when young people are building independence, forming relationships, studying, starting careers and discovering who they are, cancer can interrupt every aspect of life. Many become socially isolated, lose confidence and struggle to stay connected with the activities and people that give them a sense of purpose and identity. 

While the Youth Cancer Service provides excellent medical, psychological and social support, there is currently no dedicated role focused on helping young people remain engaged in meaningful activities throughout treatment. 

This initiative fills that gap. 

Working alongside the existing multidisciplinary team, a dedicated allied health clinician will support young people to participate in creative, social and recreational activities tailored to their interests and goals. Whether through art, music, mindfulness, technology or peer events, the program will help patients maintain important connections, build confidence and continue participating in life beyond their diagnosis.

The long-term goal is to ensure young people emerge from cancer treatment not only healthier, but better equipped to return to study, work, friendships and the future they had imagined. By recognising that recovery is about more than surviving cancer, the initiative aims to improve wellbeing, strengthen resilience and help young people reclaim their lives.