Cancer Information and Support Organisations
UK, US and Canada
Recommended organisations (UK, USA and Canada).
This list is comprised of recommendations by Carer Mentor subscribers. I’d be grateful for any personal recommendations you may have about organisations supporting cancer sufferers and their families/friends. Thank you!
OUTpatients: The UK’s only LGBTQI+ cancer charity led by LGBTQI+ people affected by cancer
Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation: support and information for everyone affected by lung cancer
Oncogene Cancer Research (UK): a charity focused on research for mutation driven lung cancers and information for those affected
EGFR Positive UK: a patient-driven charity committed to providing information and support for EGFR-mutated lung cancer patients and their families.
Maggies (UK): Everyone's home of cancer care
Macmillan Cancer Support (UK). 'Because cancer can affect your life in so many ways, we do whatever it takes to give people the support they need.' Macmillan provides medical, practical, emotional and financial support to cancer patients, their carers, friends and family. Phone: 0808 808 0000
Tackle Prostate Cancer (UK) ‘We are the only patient-led, UK-wide charity representing people with Prostate Cancer and those who care for them’
Bowel Cancer UK website. ‘We're the UK's leading bowel cancer charity’ There is a forum where you can chat online to others with bowel cancer.
BBC Action Line List of UK Organisations for Information and Support ‘If you, or someone you know, have been affected by cancer, the stated organisations may be able to help.’
You, Me and the Big C: Putting the can in cancer (Podcast). Dame Deborah Anne James DBE (1 October 1981 – 28 June 2022) was an English journalist, educator, podcast host and charity campaigner from London. In 2016, she was diagnosed with incurable bowel cancer and went on to host the You, Me and the Big C podcast on BBC Radio 5 Live about her struggles with her illness, calling herself ‘The Bowel Babe’.
CarersUK page ‘Caring for Someone with Cancer “(UK) A cancer diagnosis can come as a huge shock for family members as well as the person with cancer. To help support those throughout their journey, [Carers UK] have compiled caring tips and information from some leading charities that can offer help.’
Metavivor (US): METAvivor is dedicated to the specific fight of women and men living with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.
Young Survival Coalition (US): Young Survival Coalition (YSC) strengthens the community, addresses the unique needs, amplifies the voice and improves the quality of life of young adults affected by breast cancer, locally, nationally and internationally.
Stupid Cancer (US): Stupid Cancer, a nonprofit, is the largest charity that comprehensively addresses young adult cancer through advocacy, research, support, outreach, awareness, mobile health and social media.
The Breasties (US): for those impacted by breast and gynecologic cancers
Click here to go to the (US) Colorectal Cancer organisation website. ‘The Colorectal Cancer Alliance is the nation's leading nonprofit dedicated to colorectal cancer. Together with a nation of passionate allies, we advocate for prevention, magnify support, and accelerate research to end this disease.’
The Canadian Cancer Society: (Canada) “We offer a nationwide support system for people with cancer and their family, friends and caregivers. Access free programs and services that can help manage life with cancer, including our supportive online community, our online and phone-based information specialists and much more.”
For the care of children
Alex's Lemonade Stand (US)We’re changing the lives of children with cancer by funding impactful research, raising awareness, supporting families and empowering everyone to help cure childhood cancer.
St. Baldricks Foundation (US) The St. Baldrick’s Foundation is a volunteer and donor powered charity committed to supporting the most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers and give survivors long and healthy lives.
The Children's Oncology Group (Global) he Children’s Oncology Group (COG) a member of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN), is the world’s largest organization devoted exclusively to childhood and adolescent cancer research. COG unites over 12,000 experts in childhood cancer at more than 220 leading children’s hospitals, universities, and cancer centers across the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Saudi Arabia in the fight against childhood cancer.
Camp Kesem (US)- A wonderful free summer camp program designed specifically for children who have lost a parent to cancer. It’s run through many universities across the country. The camp creates a supportive environment where children can connect with peers facing similar experiences.
National Alliance for Grieving Children (US)- Offers local and online support groups, resources, and webinars focused on helping grieving children and families. Also, provides education for parents and caregivers on how to support grieving children.
The Dougy Center (US) - Provides peers support groups, grief resources, and advice for parents and caregivers.
CancerCare’s Bereavement Program (US)- Offers professional support for families who have lost a parent to cancer. The programs include counseling, support groups, and workshops.
Other organisations Useful links for advice, info and ideas
Book Recommendations
Dr Susan Love’s Breast Book By Susan M Love (Jan 1, 1990)
The Year of Magical Thinking. By Joan Didion (Sept 1 2005)
The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer. (Oct 3, 2007)
This is a reader-supported publication, and I’m working hard to keep everything free for those who need help.
Networking and collaborating make this a community effort, but time is my most expensive asset.
Your support with a free or paid subscription would be much appreciated.
Please remember to ‘❤️’ LIKE the article to guide others to these resources.
Thank you!