Welcome to CanQueer, a vibrant online community where LGBTQI+ young people impacted by cancer can embrace their identities, connect with others who understand, and celebrate the diversity of their journeys. This safe space is designed for Canteeners to share stories, find support, and be their authentic selves.
Exploring queer and LGBTQ+ identities
'Queer' and 'LGBTQ+' are inclusive terms encompassing various forms of sexual attraction and sex/gender identity. From intersex to transgender, genderqueer to asexual, these terms challenge binary representations, fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding. Connect with other young people who are impacted by cancer in a safe, judgment-free space where you can be 100% yourself. Cancer doesn't discriminate, and neither do we.
Get involved with CanQueer
Join our bi-monthly CanQueer online events via Canteen Connect! Whether you're questioning, curious, or an ally, all are welcome. Discover upcoming events and become a part of CanQueer's community.
More helpful info for dealing with cancer
Exams are important for future opportunities, but can be extremely stressful, and these feelings can be compounded by a cancer experience. Read some tips on how best to cope.
When you’re feeling sick, sex may be the last thing on your mind. But, when you are feeling better you might wonder about what effect your cancer or cancer treatment might have on your sex life.
Dating and starting new relationships can be hard enough at the best of times! But after a cancer diagnosis, it may seem almost impossible.
There are a range of steps trans and gender diverse people may take to affirm their gender. There is no right or wrong way to affirm your gender.
Having an intersex variation is about biological features (such as sexual anatomy, reproductive organs, hormonal patterns and/or chromosomal patterns) and not your sexual orientation or gender identity.
Everyone has certain rights when receiving health care in Australia. These rights are set out in the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights. They apply to the care you receive in public and private hospitals and by your GP.
Best friends or sworn enemies? Probably both – and it can move from one to the other in just a few seconds. Whatever your relationship with your brother or sister was like before, it’s likely to change – for better or worse – now that cancer has come into your life.
Your relationship with your partner/s can change during and after cancer treatment. Some couples find that going through cancer makes their relationship stronger and brings them closer together.
Friends can be amazing and supportive, but cancer can shake even the strongest friendship. You may lose some friends and gain new ones.
Depending on what type of treatment you need to have, how much and how often, you may have to spend a lot of time at a hospital.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+) and other young people with diverse sexualities and genders have unique health needs and concerns when diagnosed with cancer.
If you’ve moved into adulthood, you’ve probably already taken on more responsibility and control of your life through significant changes such as moving out of the family home and starting study or work. This growing independence may have shifted your relationship with your parents or carers.