Newfound Friends: A support group for adolescents with cancer

• Main Author: Kathryn Hustins
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Pappin Communications 1993-01-01
• Series: Canadian Oncology Nursing Journal
• Online Access: http://www.canadianoncologynursingjournal.com/index.php/conj/article/view/544/545

Adolescence is a developmental period greatly characterized be change. The experience of cancer at this life stage often impacts on normal development of body image and self-concept, relationships with others, autonomy and sense of identity and life direction. Newfound Friends is a support group for adolescents with cancer and/or those who have survived cancer. The purpose of the group is to promote positive psychological and social health. The article describes the goals, membership and format, as well as the activities of Newfound Friends. This group could be easily organized in other provinces by nurses who work with adolescents or young adults coping with cancer.