The Survivor Network is a Canadian network of childhood cancer survivors, aged 16-26, who support one another through the sharing of information, resources and experiences. This support enriches their lives and assists them in the transition from childhood cancer patient to childhood cancer survivor.

The hardships encountered by someone faced with childhood cancer are sometimes endless. The support of others that have had, or are going through the same hardships, provide a unique network that creates a connection with other cancer survivors and fosters a sense of community.

The network was formed in September of 2001 by five individuals. In February of 2005, a vote was held to officially elect an executive of five governing members.

These members are Liz Kerrison, a volunteer from Toronto, Jason Campbell, a Ewings Saracoma Cancer survivor from Ottawa, Ihab Younes, a Leukemia Cancer survivor from Ottawa, Pamela Finnie, a Leukemia Cancer survivor from Edmonton and Nikki Phillbrook, a volunteer from Toronto.

None of the organizers are paid and none of the members pay to be a part of the network. It is truly 100% volunteer based with ALL proceeds going to the network itself.

Our goals are to provide support through friendship and communication. Each member knows there is someone who understands exactly what they are dealing with or have dealt with, right at their fingertips. We are a unique network because currently there is no other network that provides these kinds of services on a national level.

The Survivor Network engages young persons regularly via the internet as well as face to face. Once per year, the Survivor Network hosts a week long retreat for survivors from across Canada. Laughter, friendship, understanding, acceptance, support and success in the pursuit of happiness are the focus of the week's activities. Also organized are bi-weekly online discussions regarding issues surrounding their survivorship of childhood cancer. Life after cancer for a young person comes with numerous challenges including self confidence, fertility, academic pursuits, stability and career search to name a few.

It is well documented and universally agreed upon that persons who have experienced and survived childhood cancer are the best able to support one another. This is accomplished through involvement in the Survivor Network.

"I feel comfortable talking about my fear of relapse with others who understand." J.B. Age: 21

"I've met other girls who may never become a mother because of the treatments. I'm not alone in worrying about it and my friends in SN are like that too." L.L. Age: 20

Issues like these are discussed openly, honestly and in a truly supportive environment with peers who have also gone through childhood cancer.

It is estimated that 1 in 250-400 adults aged 20-45 will be a survivor of childhood cancer by the year 2010. A growing number of concerns related to treatments are emerging as a result of progress in Aftercare. In addition to being a support group for young people who have survived childhood cancer, SN is a vehicle for sharing new information, connecting survivors with advancements that relate to them, and most importantly, illustrating, "SURVIVORS ARE NOT ALONE".

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