Adolescent Cancer Survivors’ Oncology Camp Experience

Abstract

To date, literature has documented psychosocial benefits for adolescent cancer survivors (ACS) who attend oncology camps; however, few take a detailed look into the uniqueness of the social phenomena that occurs within the camp context. Therefore, this study utilizes an interpretive phenomenological approach to explore: (1) What is the lived support experience of adolescent cancer survivors attending a one-week oncology camp? and (2) What is the meaning of social support to adolescent cancer survivors in the context of an oncology camp? A total of 16 ACS (ages 11 to 19) attending a week-long oncology camp participated in the study. Key findings shed light on the importance of peer relationships with other ACS, as ACS felt a deeper connection with others who have experienced cancer, rather than others who had not. Furthermore, these interactions facilitated a positive sense of self as a cancer survivor.