Completing active cancer treatment can bring up a wide spectrum of emotions. We’ll be by your side as you find your way through life after cancer treatment.
Lehigh Valley Health Network’s Young Adult SurvivorPLACE (programs for healthy living after the cancer experience) is dedicated to helping patients ages 18 – 39, who are at least 5 years post-cancer treatment and have no evidence of disease, experience life to the fullest. Through this program, young adults can receive ongoing follow-up care as well as a range of wellness and other resources that help optimize their physical and mental health.
Survivorship: A distinct phase of childhood, adolescent and young adult cancer care
Having cancer is unlike any other life experience. The stresses of the cancer care journey can affect your body and spirit even after the disease is gone.
At LVHN, we want to support our survivors of childhood, adolescent and young adult cancers and their families after cancer treatment ends. The survivorship phase of cancer care is designed to promote healthy and happy living after treatment completion, through surveillance and follow-up care.
Survivorship resources: Young Adult
SurvivorPLACE is available to survivors of childhood, adolescent and young adult cancers who are ages 18-39 years of age, at least five years post-cancer treatment, and have no evidence of active cancer disease. Your pediatric oncology provider will discuss Young Adult SurvivorPLACE when the time for transition is appropriate, and if you are agreeable, will make a referral.
Highlights of Young Adult SurvivorPLACE include:
Annual follow-up care
A physician or nurse practitioner will perform an exam and routine surveillance screening. Our compassionate team of oncology professionals also can provide recommendations for treatment and disease adverse effects.
Cancer risk and genetic assessment
If you have a concern regarding increased risk for a hereditary cancer syndrome, our certified genetic counselors can help you learn more about your cancer risk and its potential effect on your life.
Counseling
Complex emotions may arise in response to a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our young adult support team is here to help you navigate survivorship.
Financial coordination
If there are questions about your health insurance, hospital bills or medication, meeting with a financial coordinator can help minimize the confusion and stress that can be caused by financial concerns.
Healthy You programs
LVHN offers several health-related programs and services, including yoga and mindfulness-based stress reduction (a fee-based program). Ask your provider for details on which services might benefit your needs.
Nutrition services
A registered dietitian can provide counseling and education regarding healthy eating and weight management.
Physical rehabilitation
A rehabilitation specialist can offer strategies to increase strength and endurance, decrease fatigue and pain, and improve range of motion.
Local cancer support community
The Greater Lehigh Valley Cancer Support Community is a local not-for-profit group that offers a wide range of community support, from wellness programs to stress management guidance.
Transitional loss and life changes
Young adult survivors often experience losses through their cancer journey. It may be physical losses due to treatments, or it can be loss of a personal relationship. Our licensed clinical support staff can provide counseling to help with these issues.
Online resources and cancer support groups
A list of online resources is available to help address challenges you may face after treatment.
Your children mean the world to you.
At Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, we take the very best care of them.