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Young People Stories

Young people are at the heart of the work Canteen does in providing cancer support services for 12-25 year olds, whether that be people who have been impacted by their own diagnosis, or someone close to them. These people have turned to Canteen to find the help they needed. Below are stories from some incredible Canteen young people.
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Chloe

Chloe was 13 when her dad was diagnosed with Richter's Transformation. From that point on, Chloe spent much of her time going to appointments, visiting her dad in hospital, and looking after him. This took its toll on Chloe, who felt sad and lonely. Luckily, Canteen was there to connect Chloe with people who were going through a similar experience.

Learn more about Chloe's story.

 

 

 

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image of canteen young person chloe

 

 

 

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Image of Saskia, who had cancer at age 17

 

 

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Saskia

At 17, Saskia was diagnosed with a rare oral cancer, leading to surgeries and isolation. With her mother’s encouragement, she connected with Canteen, receiving counselling and community support. This helped her regain confidence and inspired her to study nursing, determined to support others facing hardship.

Learn more about Saskia's story.

 

 

 

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Nate

Nate was 10 when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Enduring this from such a young age was extremely difficult, and he found it hard to find people who knew what he was going through. This is where Canteen was able to offer Nate the support he needed.

Learn more about Nate's story.

 

 

 

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nate, a canteen young person, who is smiling and doing some painting

 

 

 

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josh a young person who is involved with canteen

 

 

 

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Josh

Josh was diagnosed with, and survived, liver cancer as a toddler. As a result, he missed out on a lot of opportunities from a young age. However, since then, Canteen has helped Josh to pursue his passion for creativity. He has gone onto become a youth ambassador, and his incredible creative talent has led him to become part of a number of projects, including creating his own bandanna designs!

Learn more about Josh's story.

 

 

 

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Abbey

Abbey's dad passed away from cancer at age 16, which was a hugely isolating period for her just as she was entering the last couple of years of high school. Abbey was able to find Canteen and got involved in a range of initiatives, like Local Leadership, being a Youth Ambassador, and developed a range of skills. 

Learn about Abbey's story.

 

 

 

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Abbey, a young Australian who has benefited from Canteen's free cancer help, smiling at the camera wearing dungarees

 

 

 

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Tara, a young person who has benefited from Canteen's free cancer support services for young Australians, smiling into the camera in front of a window

 

 

 

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Tara

For Tara, crocheting was a way to pass by time as she underwent chemotherapy. When her blanket was long enough, it kept her warm during her treatment. To her, it’s a symbol of resilience and what she’s overcome.

Learn more about how Tara & how she found a hobby in crocheting.