Cancer Statistics and Impact - The National Cancer Institute estimates that 405% of US men and women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime [3] - Approximately 2 million people in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer this year [11] - Cancer causes 600 thousand deaths annually in the United States [16] The Importance of Social Support - Married individuals facing a cancer diagnosis are less likely to die compared to unmarried individuals, according to the Journal of Clinical Oncology [24] - A Kaiser Permanente study revealed that isolated women with breast cancer have a 64% higher risk of mortality from the disease [24] - The American Cancer Society indicates that individuals with strong social support networks adapt better to cancer-related changes, maintain a more positive outlook, and report a higher quality of life [24] The Role of Connection and Relationships - Deep connections and relationships can significantly impact the lives of individuals facing cancer [25] - Social support and a commitment to feeling normal can extend the lives of cancer patients [25] - Connecting with individuals facing cancer empowers both the supporter and the supported to live more fully [26] Beyond Traditional Treatment - The treatment regimen for cancer extends beyond chemotherapy and radiation, encompassing the support and connection provided by others [27] - Simple connections and presence can improve hope and quality of life for those affected by cancer [28]

I need you right now. Me for what. My big sister needed me.I was 17 and she was 20. You know, Katie told me she needed me when she had brain cancer. About a year into her diagnosis, my brother and I were headed out the door to get ice cream.When she asked to go, I said yes, but this wasn't my best day as a caregiver. I slipped and I was tired and showed on my face that I was reluctant to bring her. In that moment, uh, I was balancing supporting my terminally ill sister and my own youth mental health.You kno ...