The physical challenges caused by cancer and cancer treatments are well documented. Less discussed are the emotional and social tolls of fighting cancer, particularly in teens and young adults. During this stage of budding independence, when socialization skills should be developing, cancer and cancer treatment takes over and completely disrupts lives.
Trying to integrate back into a normal routine after cancer treatment can be difficult. Often, teens feel isolated and may struggle with social interaction. Others may still be dealing with physical side effects that can be socially or emotionally inhibiting. Re-engaging with old friends can be awkward and some teens find that their friends have moved on.
Fortunately, Primary Children’s Hospital has a tremendous peer support group for teens and young adults called CREW, which stands for Courageous Reassuring & Enthusiastic Winners. Formed by teen and young adult cancer patients along with Primary Children’s staff members, CREW is the only support group in the area specifically for teens 13 and older. The primary purpose of CREW is to provide adolescents who have, or have had cancer, the opportunity to get together for food, fun, and social bonding activities. CREW offers cancer patients, as well as those who are finished with treatment, a welcoming and safe place to open up and share their feelings about cancer and the changes the disease has brought to their lives. CREW gives them opportunities to talk with other teens and young adults who know exactly what they are going through.
CREW meets once a month for a sometimes challenging—but always fun—activity. Teens and young adults who participate in CREW build lasting friendships and become a close-knit group where there is no judgment, only encouragement and support. Some activities involve parents and family members; others are just for the teens and young adults. All of the activities are well-staffed with social workers and other hospital or community specialists to ensure the safety of the participants.
Recent CREW Activities Included:
- Game night pizza party
- River running
- Yoga night
- Laser tag
- Hogle Zoo
- Cross country skiing (via the National Ability Center in Park City)
- Rock wall climbing
- Dinner at Café Rio
- Red Butte Gardens
- Utah Museum of Natural History
- Movie night with family, friends, and snacks.
Who Should Attend CREW Activities:
CREW activities benefit all teens and young adults who have had cancer, especially those who are having a difficult time getting back to their pre-cancer socialization levels. Current or former cancer patients who are withdrawing from interaction and are spending most of their time alone, or those experiencing long-term side effects, will find the help and support they need at CREW activities. Teens who have made smooth adjustments back to “normal” life are also great assets to CREW, as they understand the challenges associated with cancer and cancer treatment, and can provide needed friendship and support to their fellow cancer patients.
For more information about CREW and upcoming activities, contact Cathy Haskins at [email protected] or call (801) 662-4554. Ask to be invited to join the CREW Facebook page. (This is a private page, so you’ll need to be invited to join.) It’s a great place to chat with other CREW members, view photos of past activities, and stay updated on all upcoming events.
Those under 18 years old will need a parent to sign a release in order to get access to the CREW Facebook page.
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