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CancerCare and Stupid Cancer held a potluck picnic at Brooklyn Bridge Park on a warm summer evening on July 24 to bring together young adults impacted by cancer. Over twenty people attended, including CancerCare social workers Hayley Feuchs, LMSW, Sara Grisales Jaramillo, LMSW and Stupid Cancer staff.

“Throughout the evening, there seemed to be a feeling of excitement that was present,” said CancerCare's Young Adult Program Coordinator Hayley Feuchs. “Attendees shared a special dish with others, which helped to promote a sense of community. Members talked the whole night and exchanged numbers at the end, which was very special to see!”

Creating communities for young adults navigating a cancer diagnosis is essential, as they often may not know others facing similar experiences. “A cancer diagnosis can be isolating, but discovering a supportive community can make a significant difference,” said Hayley. “Hosting this event with Stupid Cancer allowed us to reach even more individuals and help them build meaningful connections within their communities.”

“It is really hard to have the kinds of sincere conversations about living with cancer with anyone other than those also personally affected by cancer,” said one of the attendees after the event. “The safe spaces and community that you and your colleagues work to create and support have allowed me to explore ideas and perspectives that I do not think I would otherwise have been able to and, for that, I am very grateful to you all."

To all the young adults who attended, we are so grateful to you for sharing your experiences and connecting with others navigating similar journeys. Thank you to all the attendees, including CancerCare and Stupid Cancer staff, for making this a special evening!

Learn more about CancerCare's free programs and services for young adults affected by cancer and visit our friends at Stupid Cancer for additional resources.