Community Opportunities for Dana-Farber Patients
Broader Support, Closer Connections
Beyond your medical team, there’s a wide range of support available to make life with breast cancer more manageable, no matter your stage or phase. Here you’ll find mentorships, retreats, workshops, and groups that connect you with others and provide encouragement, knowledge, and relief when you need it most.
Connection Opportunities for Dana-Farber Patients
One-to-One Program
One-to-One is a free, short-term telephone mentorship program at Dana-Farber for patients and caregivers. You’ll be paired with a trained volunteer peer mentor—someone who’s “been there”—to connect over a few supportive phone calls.
When matched with a young adult mentor who’s had a similar early stage breast cancer diagnosis and/or treatment plan, you can talk through:
- Symptoms you’re experiencing and what to expect from surgery or chemotherapy
- Resources that may help you feel supported
- Concerns about survivorship, caregiving, or workplace conversations
- How to talk with your child about a diagnosis
- Challenges unique to being a young breast cancer patient
SoulMates Program
SoulMates connects you with a peer who truly understands the ups and downs of breast cancer. This ongoing program is fully virtual and flexible; you and your mentor can connect by phone, text, or email in whatever way works best.
Mentorship typically lasts from 12 weeks up to 9 months, giving you time to build a consistent, supportive relationship. Afterward, you can stay connected through monthly community meetings and, if you choose, continue your relationship with your mentor. SoulMates mentors receive extra training in confidentiality, coping strategies, and problem-solving so they can support you with confidence.
Dana-Farber’s Young Adult Program (YAP) Opportunities
The Young Adult Program (YAP) at Dana-Farber offers emotional support, education, and opportunities to connect with others who understand what it means to face cancer at a younger age. Designed primarily for people ages 18–39, YAP also welcomes anyone who identifies with the young adult experience.
Educational Workshops
Interactive sessions that help you build knowledge, practice self-advocacy, and connect with peers. Topics may include:
- Sexuality and intimacy
- Personal identity and cancer
- Creative and therapeutic outlets
In-Person Support Group
A monthly support group open to any young adult diagnosed with cancer. It’s a space to share experiences, ask questions, and feel supported.
Post-Oncology Survivorship Talks (POST) Virtual Group
Life after treatment brings a new set of questions and challenges. The POST program is a six-week Zoom series for young adults (ages 18–early 40s) who have completed treatment and want support as they move forward. Each 75-minute session combines education and group discussion on survivorship topics like side effects, fear of recurrence, dating, and returning to work or school.
Young Adult Cancer Conference
An annual gathering for young adults and their caregivers. This event features workshops, expert discussions, and peer connections, focusing on the unique issues that come with being diagnosed at this age.
iaya App
YAP’s mobile app, iaya, helps build community and coping skills among young adult patients at Dana-Farber.
If you’d like to access the iaya app or stay updated on YAP events, workshops, or resources, email yap@dfci.harvard.edu or connect with the Young and Strong team.