As if young adulthood wasn’t challenging enough, experiencing cancer at this stage of life can cause one to feel disconnected from their peers. It is common for cancer patients to lack a sense of belonging with others, especially in settings like school or work. So how can young adults with cancer cope with feeling out of place and like they don’t fit in due to their diagnosis?

Life on Pause is a podcast created by and for young adults living with cancer. Within this episode, host Kayla is joined by guest Allison to discuss the idea of not “fitting in” with others while having cancer. Allison describes her own experience with cancer and how the changes brought on by her diagnosis affected her relationships with others. She also shares her advice to young adult listeners as someone who has gone through the cancer journey as a teenager in college and came out the other side.

Listen to Kayla and Allison discuss the cancer experience:

Introducing Allison (0:30)

Allison, also known as Ally, was diagnosed with stage two cancer at just 18, at the start of her college experience. Now at 22, she is finishing nursing school and plans to become an emergency room RN this fall.

Taking on New Roles (1:17)

Being diagnosed and going through treatment can make you feel out of place or like you don't necessarily belong. Allison shares her story of adjusting to the changes that came with her diagnosis and taking her place in her new role as a college student with cancer. She explains how her diagnosis made her reevaluate and rethink her relationships and time.

Relationship Changes (3:46)

Throughout her cancer journey, Allison experienced changes in her relationships. While she felt encouraged and supported by some people in her life, her diagnosis brought unexpected developments to her relationships with her boyfriend and her parents. She explains how cancer forced her to reevaluate her values, rekindle value relationships that were important to her, and let go of those that weren't.

Cancer as a Teen (6:16)

Experiencing cancer as a teen wasn't easy for Allison, especially as she compared her life to those of her peers in college. But, constantly aware of the differences between herself and her seemingly carefree classmates, she eventually learned to place less focus on these thoughts. Instead, she highlights the importance of discovering who you are under the surface rather than who you think you should be.

Getting Through It (10:17)

Coming to terms with a cancer diagnosis can be challenging, especially considering all the adjustments involved with the cancer journey. For Allison, sharing her story through the podcast was one way to cope with her situation and connect with others. She also reflects on her past choices regarding honesty and openness with others about her diagnosis and treatment.

Allison’s Advice (12:55)

Life is ever-changing, and according to Allison, you must be comfortable and ready to change your life. Allison shares her advice for young adults experiencing change due to a cancer diagnosis and speaks on the importance of finding positivity throughout the cancer journey.