More than half of cancer patients and survivors experience deep isolation after a diagnosis, a challenge standard medical care simply isn’t built to address.

In just the first six months of this year, we’ve helped bring 503 people around the world out of isolation and into a space of true belonging—keeping us on track to directly reach more than 1,000 people this year. We also launched two new projects this year that will soon scale our work exponentially to rooms and communities we’ve never been able to reach before.

A Space Where No One Has to Feel Alone

In June, young adults impacted by cancer had the opportunity to gather in Nairobi, Kenya for a Mizizi workshop.

Meet Bonface, an osteosarcoma survivor, who shared the powerful perspective he walked away with: 

“I love Mizizi workshops because it is important for the youth to come together as survivors and share our stories openly, without fear of being judged… These workshops demonstrate to other young people that living with cancer is similar to any other health challenge and that healing is possible. I encourage other young survivors to attend these workshops so they don’t feel alone.”

Strengthening Community in Support Groups

Across the U.S., support groups are a critical lifeline. But because they are usually volunteer-run by fellow survivors rather than professionals, these leaders rarely get the training they need to navigate heavy, complex emotions. To change that, we are taking AFC’s expertise in peer-led facilitation and equipping these leaders with the tools they need to hold these tough, essential spaces.

Karen, a bladder cancer survivor who leads her own support group, shared why this is so vital:

“Leading a support group as a cancer patient myself is one of the most unique challenges I’ve ever faced. It is being next to people at their toughest times with grace and compassion, while being authentic so that your group has trust… the timing for this initiative is so critical.”

Support and Connection That is Always Within Reach

For those who aren’t ready for a group, or who need support in the middle of night, we’re building 24/7 on-demand resources alongside patients, survivors, and caregivers. This year, we are focusing on our emotional-health concept of Making Room for Mixed Emotions to help people manage the complex, conflicting emotions that come with cancer.

Priscilla, a recent program participant, described this emotional tightrope perfectly:

“Cancer isn’t just darkness or light; it dwells in the grey. And within that in-between… I find my equilibrium.”

What Connects Us to This Work

The AFC Community stays strong because of the people who stand beside patients, survivors, and caregivers around the world. Recently, Lynne—an AFC alum and donor—shared why she chooses to support this mission:

“I continue to support AFC because the wisdom and life skills I learned from this organization continue to guide me.  My relationships, attitude, and decision-making are all positively influenced by my continued involvement with AFC, and I have gained wonderful life-long friends all over the globe who enrich my life in more ways than I can count. I am honored to pay it forward so that others can benefit from all that AFC offers.”