​​You're managing a serious illness, and you also may be:
  • Dealing with concerns about future fertility
  • Considering genetic risks in treatment and prevention decisions
  • Parenting young children
  • Finishing school
  • Managing a career
  • Building relationships
Recognizing that young adults have unique needs, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center launched the Program for Young Women with Breast Cancer in 2005. In 2021, to more accurately reflect the patients we serve, we updated our name to the Program for Young Adults with Breast Cancer.  
A Program as Unique as You
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Young and Strong, part of the Susan F. Smith Center for Women's Cancers at Dana-Farber, is the first and only program of its kind in the world. We have guided more than 8,500 young adults on their journeys through and beyond cancer, offering comprehensive care, support, and programs tailored specifically to you. 

The Most Experienced Partners in Care

Your treatment team is made up of world-renowned breast cancer experts who focus their career and research specifically on young adults. As partners in your treatment, we will help you make informed decisions about your care. ​
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Members of the Breast Oncology Program Administrative Leadership Team. Our multi-disciplinary team works closely with patients, providing the resources and close cooperation of many specialists with deep expertise in diagnosing and treating breast cancer.

​​Resources to meet your needs

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The Healing Garden at Dana Farber, Yawkey Center.
  • ​Genetic testing and counseling
  • Fertility and reproductive services
  • Sexual health program
  • Family Connections-- parenting binders and kid/teen packs​
  • Nutrition services
  • Exercise consults and classes
  • Integrative therapies, such as acupuncture and massage
  • Psychological support
    • Consultations with a clinical social worker
    • Support and guidance from someone who has experienced cancer

Programs and Events

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Annual Forum for Young Women with Breast Cancer, 2018
Each year, Young and Strong hosts many in-person and virtual events that provide educational and social opportunities for young adults with breast cancer. Below are examples of past programs: 
  • Educational Webcasts
  • Galentine’s Day Social
  • Dating Workshop
  • Sexual Health Workshop for Women
  • Parenting Workshop
  • Sexual Health Workshop for Couples
  • Annual Forum for Young Adults with Breast Cancer
  • EMBRACing Young and Strong Meet-Ups - a community for young adults with metastatic breast cancer
More information about these programs are also announced in Young and Strong’s monthly e-newsletters. If you would like to be added to the distribution list, please email [email protected] or fill out the form to sign up.

We're here for you.

For more information, please contact us.
Phone:
Program Manager:
Kathryn Rigby, MSEd, MSW
(617) 632-3916
Program Manager:
Sarah Desmarais, MPH
(617) 632-4029
Program Coordinator:
Laura Young
(857) 215-2792
Social:
Follow Dana-Farber on Twitter: @DanaFarber and @DanaFarberNews
Follow Dana-Farber's Breast Oncology Center on Instagram: @danafarber_breast