Over the past few years, we have made significant strides in the ongoing treatment for survivors of childhood cancers – a demographic previously unaccounted for within the Provincial cancer care system.
The LEAF clinic is making this possible and, in partnership with generous support from donors to the BC Cancer Foundation, these survivors – many of whom are unaware of their risks – will now receive the care they need.
The first education day for adult survivors of childhood cancers will be held this Fall, and will bring together survivors, their family, clinicians and community organizations to address the various ways in which we can help them to address and manage their health problems and risks.
In addition, ongoing support from the BC Cancer Foundation will help address the unique needs of young adults and adolescents who are facing cancer, many of whom undergo significant psycho-social stresses during and after their treatment, with the goal of establishing a full-time care program for them.
While we have and continue to make these improvements to care across the province, I believe we can still do more. My hope is that in the next few years, the LEAF clinic will, together with a permanent AYA program, be part of a broader, holistic survivorship program for young survivors.
Donors are at the heart of this progress and together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of these patients.
Thank you for tuning in this month to my blog and for your ongoing support of expanding survivorship care in British Columbia.
Karen