Help Stephanie raise money

1st pic: 20th bday at Shadyside Hospital, 2 weeks post-diagnosis

2nd pic: Visiting a patient in 2019, I walked past the room where treated and stopped in my tracks, instantly reminding me of initial treatment.

3rd pic: Now a public speaker at a national conference, advocating for young adult cancer survivors

I’ve made it my life’s mission to ensure that no young adult facing cancer ever feels alone—but I can’t do it without you.

When I was diagnosed with leukemia in 2005, I was placed in an adult cancer care system that wasn’t designed for someone my age. The isolation was immediate and overwhelming. In that moment, I realized something had to change: young adults needed a community, support, and resources built specifically for them.

That moment didn’t just change my life—it became the reason YASU exists.

Today, as a 20-year cancer survivor who recently turned 40, I have the privilege of leading this work. And every day, I see the impact: young adults finding connection instead of isolation, caregivers receiving support they didn’t know existed, and lives being transformed in real, tangible ways.

But the truth is—there are still too many young adults out there navigating cancer alone.

I personally have had some of the hardest conversations with them. I've attended their weddings, and I've spoken at their funerals. Every financial assistance statement is heartbreaking and a powerful reminder that while we’ve made progress, the financial toxicity affecting young adult cancer survivors remains overwhelming, with a long road still ahead. Can you imagine what it feels like to know that a lifelong friendship was made from 2 individuals meeting during a virtual social workshop? 

There's no reward comparable to the one I feel after knowing how YASU is part of the reason their quality of life is enhanced.

We are working to reach them. To expand programs. To provide critical, no-cost services. And we cannot meet this growing need without immediate support.

Your gift today directly ensures that a young adult facing cancer has access to community, resources, and hope when they need it most.

Please join me in making sure no one faces cancer alone!