What is Thrive?
Thrive is Canteen’s dedicated survivorship program for young people who have completed cancer treatment. It brings survivors together for an immersive, multi-day residential program combining clinical education, peer connection, and practical tools for life after cancer. It addresses identity, relationships, fertility, career, mental health, and what comes next - the very topics that fall through the cracks when treatment ends.
Why cancer survivorship matters
Cancer can no longer be seen as a disease of older age - we are seeing a troubling rise in aggressive, life-threatening cancers among young people and their parents. And for those who survive, survival does not mean a return to normal life.
When treatment ends, the formal support system largely disappears - at the precise moment when late effects begin to emerge. Many survivors describe the experience as “falling off a cliff."
1,300
15-25 year olds diagnosed with cancer every year in Australia.
30,000
Young Australians who have survived cancer.
1 in 3
Young cancer survivors will be faced with mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
4 out of 5
Young people impacted by cancer feel distressed and alone.
Canteen's survivorship program in action
After reviewing data collected, participants found Thrive useful in feeling more supported in their survivorship journey.
- 100% of participants were satisfied with Thrive.
- 100% said the quality of the program was excellent.
- 100% said Thrive met their needs.
100% would recommend Thrive to a friend in a similar situation.
“I signed up because I felt lost after being in fight or flight for so long.”
What I found most useful:
“Being able to ask questions that my usual support network can’t answer.”
Frequently Asked Questions
The program is intended for young adults aged 18-25 who have completed active cancer treatment.
The program will be run over three-day and two nights. Get in touch to find out when the next one is running, by calling 1800 226 833, email [email protected] or fill in this quick referral form.
All Canteen programs are completely free to attend. Travel, meals, dorm-style accommodation and activities are all included.
If you’re new to Canteen, the first step is to call us on 1800 226 833, email [email protected] or leave us your details. If you’re already using other Canteen services, you can contact your key worker.
The program runs over three days and two nights, where our young people will:
- Participate in therapeutic group sessions facilitated by Canteen psychosocial staff.
- Attend workshops delivered by experts in their field e.g. Fertility, nutrition, future and career.
- Have some down time to relax, reflect and be themselves!
100% of those who attended our last Thrive said that the program met their needs and would recommend to a friend.
Looking for something else?
We’ve got everything from bowling to cooking classes and casual ‘drop-ins’ at your local Canteen office.
If it’s tricky to get to a face-to-face event, Canteen Connect can get you socialising from the comfort of your couch with things like book clubs, gaming nights and crafting sessions. Queer, questioning or curious? CanQueer also offers a vibrant online community for LGBTQI+ young people.