Ashley ElleFounded by Stephanie Samolovitch, a leukemia survivor, YASU seeks to fill the gap in cancer care for young adults, who often find themselves lost between pediatric and older adult support systems. Motivated by her personal experience, Stephanie set out to build a community that redefines what it means to support young adult cancer survivors.
Samolovitch’s life took an unexpected turn at 19, when she was diagnosed with leukemia just weeks before starting her junior year at the University of Pittsburgh. “I had no idea leukemia was even a cancer,” Stephanie recalls. “I thought it was a blood disorder; there was never a history of cancer in my family.”
She spent weeks in the hospital undergoing chemotherapy and various treatments, including brain radiation and spinal taps. The sudden shift from planning a future as a pharmacist to fighting for her life left Samolovitch grappling with the physical and emotional tolls of cancer.
Samolovitch’s early journey was marked by isolation, as she spent her days surrounded by doctors and nurses rather than friends her age. Upon completing treatment, she found herself struggling to adjust to life beyond cancer. “You have your blinders on during treatment, and when it’s over, you’re left asking, ‘Now what?’” This question ultimately fueled her decision to switch her major to social work, a field where she felt she could make a difference for others facing similar challenges.
Founding YASU, Finding Purpose
In 2012, Samolovitch began facilitating young adult cancer support groups in Pittsburgh. Over time, she recognized that survivors needed more than just a space to talk; they needed opportunities to live and enjoy life beyond their diagnoses. This realization led her to organize social outings, offer financial assistance, and eventually establish YASU in 2020, with a focus on emotional, social, and financial support tailored to young adult survivors.
Rae of Hope
YASU’s mission is to empower young adult cancer survivors through community, support, and resources that address the unique challenges faced by this age group. The organization offers a variety of programs that have grown significantly since its inception. One of the key offerings is the Rae of Hope program, which provides free respite trips to survivors, allowing them to escape the daily pressures of cancer treatment and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Named in honor of Raelene, a dear friend of Samolovitch’s who passed away from breast cancer, the Rae of Hope program reflects Raelene’s love for little getaways during her battle with cancer. Whether it’s a day at the spa, attending a concert, or spending a night in the mountains, these trips offer survivors a chance to recharge. “It’s a reward for all they’ve been through, and it’s our honor to provide that,” Samolovitch explains.
Financial Assistance
YASU also offers a financial assistance program, providing grants of up to $600 to help cover essential expenses such as rent, utilities, and medical bills. In a year marked by inflation and increased need, YASU received more applications for financial assistance in the first few months of 2024 than in the entire previous year. The program has been a lifeline for many, preventing evictions, keeping utilities running, and helping families put food on the table during difficult times.
Samolovitch’s leadership is characterized by a deep empathy for the survivors she serves, shaped by her own experiences as a young adult cancer survivor. “Cancer doesn’t just end when treatment does,” she says. “For many, that’s when the real healing begins.” Her commitment to YASU is evident in every aspect of the organization, from personally responding to members’ needs to pushing for innovative ways to support them. Samolovitch acknowledges the emotional toll of her work, particularly when dealing with terminal cases or the financial hardships of young survivors. “It’s hard not to bring it home with you,” she admits. To cope, she prioritizes self-care through exercise, solo travel, and spending time with her family, allowing her to recharge and continue her work with a clear mind.
Social Events
One of YASU’s strengths is its ability to foster a sense of community among its members. Social events provide a much-needed break from the rigors of treatment and a chance to connect with others who understand what it’s like to face cancer at a young age.
Lindsey Harshaw, YASU’s Assistant Director, joined the organization in June 2021 as its first hire. Lindsey’s role is multifaceted, overseeing the financial assistance program, coordinating support activities, and managing social media efforts.
A key component of Lindsey’s job is coordinating Rae of Hope trips, which she describes as deeply rewarding but also logistically challenging. “We’ve sent people to concerts, indoor water parks with their kids, and even date nights downtown,” she says. “It’s about giving them a chance to do something they otherwise couldn’t afford.”
Lindsey also manages YASU’s social activities, which include both virtual and in-person events. From virtual workshops and paint-and-sip classes to mocktail-making sessions and professional headshot days, YASU’s events are designed to bring survivors together in a fun and supportive environment. “It’s not just about sitting in a circle talking about cancer,” Lindsey explains. “It’s about actually surviving and living.”
Distribution Days with the Christian Cochran Foundation
The organization also holds monthly distribution days, allowing members to pick up household essentials and alleviate some of the financial stress many survivors experience. In collaboration with the Christian Cochran Foundation, YASU coordinates this event each month, which Samolovitch describes as crucial to the well-being of those they serve.
“Christian passed away in 2021 from a rare form of cancer, and his parents started the foundation to honor him. It was important to us to partner with them to help others,” Samolovitch explains. Cochran’s famous phrase, “What’s good about today?” adorns each bag given out on distribution days, encouraging recipients to find the good in every day.
Community Involvement
Samolovitch emphasizes that involvement with YASU extends beyond cancer survivors. The organization relies heavily on volunteers to help with inventory, assemble care packages, and assist at fundraising events. “It’s amazing to see the broader community come together to support our mission,” Samolovitch shares.
One of the most impactful ways to support YASU’s mission is through donations—whether monetary contributions or purchasing household goods for distribution days from YASU’s Amazon Wishlist. Regular, recurring donations make the greatest difference. “A steady $10 monthly contribution often helps more than a one-time $100 gift. That consistent flow of funds is what sustains YASU’s work. For the price of just one or two coffee shop visits each month, you can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.”
Cancer Camp
One of YASU’s most unique and beloved programs is Cancer Camp, held annually over Labor Day weekend. Co-hosted with Elephants and Tea, the camp offers a retreat for survivors to relax, connect, and participate in a variety of activities that cater to all levels of physical ability and interest.
“Camp is truly a magical place,” says Lindsey Harshaw, Assistant Director of YASU. “We have everything from archery and swimming to art workshops and yoga. There’s always something happening, but campers can also just rest, read, or take naps in the hammocks if that’s what they need.”
This year, Cancer Camp welcomed a full roster of 100 campers with an additional 40 on the wait list, highlighting the increasing demand for this kind of supportive retreat. Campers come from across the U.S. and Canada, creating a diverse and inclusive environment where survivors can bond over shared experiences.
Wig Out
YASU also hosts Wig Out, which is the organization’s largest and most festive fundraising event, combining fun, fashion, and philanthropy. Held each year near Halloween, this lively event invites attendees to don their most outrageous wigs and costumes, transforming Rivers Casino into a colorful celebration of life, survivorship, and community spirit. The event features food and drink vendors, live entertainment, and a variety of engaging activities that make it a night to remember.
“The Wig Out Party started as a small event, but it has grown so much that we’ve moved to the largest event space at Rivers,” Samolovitch shares. “It’s our biggest fundraiser, and it’s all about bringing people together to celebrate survivors.” This year’s Wig Out Party will be held on October 25 from 6 until 10pm.
Looking to the Future
As YASU approaches its five-year anniversary in 2025, Samolovitch has big plans for the future. She envisions expanding the organization’s reach and services. “We want to provide resources that not only offer immediate relief but also long-term support.”
YASU also plans to strengthen its partnerships with other organizations, particularly those that serve underrepresented communities, such as BIPOC and LGBTQ+ cancer survivors. By collaborating with groups that specialize in these areas, YASU aims to ensure that all young survivors have access to the resources they need.
The challenges faced by young adult cancer survivors are unique and often misunderstood. Many survivors look healthy on the outside, which can lead to misconceptions about their need for support. They are often caught between building their careers, managing debt, and dealing with the lingering effects of cancer treatment. This reality is compounded for those who are single, parents, or caring for their own aging parents.
Financial assistance remains one of the most critical yet underfunded areas of support for young adult cancer survivors. “There are very few organizations offering financial aid, and many are intimidated by the complexities of providing this type of support,” Samolovitch explains. YASU is determined to fill this gap, but the demand far exceeds the available resources.
For those looking to make a difference, YASU’s message is clear: whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every contribution helps build a brighter future for young adult cancer survivors.
For Wig Out tickets, YASU’s Amazon Wish List link, or to learn more, visit YAsurvivors.org
