Rise Above supports youth and young adults aged 15 to 34, from the first weeks of treatment through recovery and long-term adjustment. Our programs offer comfort during treatment, a community of people who understand, and practical help with school, work, disability and income supports, everyday skills, and new plans.
Treatment may end, but its effects often don’t. Fatigue, changes to memory, mobility, speech, hearing or appearance, and other disabilities can change what daily life, school and work look like. Returning to the old plan isn’t always possible, and for some people the priority is managing everyday life rather than a course or a job. That’s a fine place to start with us.
In-person programs run in Hamilton, Burlington, the Greater Toronto Area and the Niagara region, and some of our programs are open virtually to young people across Canada. Programs are open to everyone who meets the age and cancer-related eligibility requirements, and we work deliberately to reach people from racialized and newcomer communities and those living on low incomes, who often face added barriers to support.
Rise Again is a six-week program for youth and young adults working out what happens after treatment.
Some want to get back to school or work. Others need to change direction, because cancer, disability or treatment effects have changed what’s possible.
And for some, the priority is
managing daily life rather than a course or a job. That’s a fair place to start, and we’ll work from there.
The Resilience Circle brings together people aged 15 to 35 who are in treatment, recovering, or living with long-term effects. Sessions include open conversation, activities and occasional guests, with food at in-person gatherings. Members help choose the topics, including the changes cancer brings to relationships, school, work, identity and daily life.
Circles meet monthly and each one is co-hosted by someone with lived experience of cancer. You can join at any time, and we’ll speak with you beforehand so you know what to expect.
For ages 15 to 30, during or after treatment · Currently running
Rise Kits reach youth and young adults through hospital care teams in the early weeks of treatment. Each one holds comfort and practical items that young survivors picked out themselves, because they know what makes a long treatment day easier. Contents vary with what we have and what’s been donated.
Every kit also carries an invitation to our other programs, for whenever the person feels ready. If hair loss is part of your treatment, we can help with headwear and point you toward the programs that cover wigs.
For young people 15 to 34 in treatment · Currently running
If you’re 15 to 34 and affected by cancer, or you’re helping someone who is, you can contact us at any time. You don’t need a referral or a program name.
We want everyone to be able to take part and enjoy the experience. If you need an
accommodation, let us know and we’ll be happy to work out what would help you.
Rise Above Cancer Foundation is more than just an organization, it’s a global movement fueled by resilience, empathy, and the power of hope. Founded and led by a two-time cancer survivor, we are committed to saving lives today while building a future free from a cancer. Together, we can rise above cancer and create a lasting legacy of care, empowerment, and hope.
