Charity helps youth handle disease stress
EACH year about 18,000 12-to-24-year-olds are confronted with cancer - their own or that of a parent, brother or sister.
These shocking facts mean thousands of young people have to come to terms with a cancer diagnosis on top of dealing with regular teen issues.
CanTeen is the only national charity dedicated to helping young people fight cancer no matter what their cancer experience.
CanTeen's work empowers young people to take back control of their lives.
Jessica is a CanTeen patient member who was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma at just 15 years of age.
"When you get diagnosed with cancer, all the thoughts in your mind are rushed, panicked and scared.
"You start stressing about your hair falling out, the school lessons you're missing out on, and - most of all - being afraid to lose your life," she said.
CanTeen's annual National Bandanna Day is taking place on Friday, October 26.
"People can buy and wear a bandanna to show young people they support their fight against cancer," Jessica said.
For more information, visit bandannaday.com.au or phone 1800226833.
