Research Study: Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Peer Mentoring

What are the goals?

We want to learn more about how peer mentoring could be a useful way to provide support to adolescents and young adults (AYAs) receiving cancer treatment.

Who can participate?

Mentors: Young adults 18 and older who completed cancer treatment at least a year ago and were nominated by a member of their oncology team to serve as a peer mentor

Mentees: Adolescents and young adults 14 to 29 years old who are currently receiving cancer treatment or are within one year of completing cancer treatment and are interested in connecting with a peer mentor

What will participants be asked to do?

Peer mentors will listen, answer questions, share experiences and resources, and provide support from their unique perspective, since they also received cancer treatment at CHOP. Mentors will NOT provide medical or psychological advice. Each mentor is supported by a psychosocial staff member who is available to them if questions or concerns arise.

Both mentors and mentees will be asked to complete brief surveys three times over the course of 12 months to assess the benefits and challenges of the program.

What are the benefits of taking part in this research study?

Mentees may benefit by connecting with someone who “gets it” and learn tips and resources for getting through cancer treatment. Mentors may find it meaningful to give back and help someone who is going through treatment.

To learn more, please contact May Albee, albeem@email.chop.edu.

AYA mentors spotlight

Meet some of the AYA mentors who listen, answer questions, share experiences and provide support to patients here at CHOP.