Planet Cancer

Book excerpt: Tapping the collective wisdom of the young adult cancer community Each year, nearly 70,000 young adults between 18 and 40 are diagnosed in the United States with cancer. While there are many sources of information for patients, the special concerns of this age group are rarely discussed. One remarkable exception is PlanetCancer.org. For nearly a decade, those in this “gap” age have sought out this online community for resources, networks, and support from those who have been there and done that. Planet Cancer is an honest, down-to-earth guide to living in this new world, from Diagnosis to Post-Treatment. Each chapter is informed by Planet Cancer’s voice—authoritative, funny, friendly, no-nonsense. Experts address issues from all sides around bedrock “What It’s Really Like” essays: deeply personal, unflinching, and often hilarious pieces written by people who actually experienced on Planet Cancer things like banking sperm, adopting a child, or undergoing brain radiation. The book, enlivened with quotes and real-life stories from Planet Cancer members, gives the uninitiated a sense of community and removes some of the mystery and fear of the unknown. Planet Cancer is now a LIVESTRONG initiative.