About HIAYA
A cancer diagnosis presents different challenges for young people than for younger children or older adults. Cancer can disrupt big milestones that commonly happen during this age range like completing school, choosing a career path, building personal relationships, and working toward emotional, social, and financial independence.
AYA seeks to address the unique needs of AYAs in Utah and the surround states. We currently offer:
- AYA Patient Navigators to help guide young people through their cancer care
- Connection through social media
We collaborate with many neighboring healthcare organizations to ensure AYAs receive the immediate and long-term support services necessary to meet their unique needs. Collaborators include:
- Intermountain Cancer Centers, clinics, and hospitals, including Primary Children’s Hospital
- Huntsman Cancer Institute
- Community Oncologists
Young Adult Connections
Join us for a casual and fun monthly online group dedicated to young adults ages 18-39 who have had a cancer diagnosis. Young Adult Connections offers a chance for you to meet other local young adults who “get it.” Our hope is to help you feel a little less alone and more connected and empowered during tough times. Feel free to bring a guest. Events take place every third Thursday of the month. Young Adult Connection events are held in collaboration with Intermountain Cancer Center and the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Check the HIAYA (Huntsman – Intermountain Adolescent and Young Adult) social media pages each month or email us for event details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AYA?
AYA stands for Adolescent and Young Adult. This is a group of people diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 15 and 39.
Why is cancer different for AYAs?
AYAs have no medical home – they feel too old for pediatric cancer care, but too young for adult cancer care (in which most patients are decades older).
Who is the HIAYA Cancer Care program for?
The HIAYA Cancer Care Program is for people between the ages of 15 and 39 diagnosed with cancer as well as their support system, including caregivers.
How much money will navigation cost me?
Seeing the HIAYA Patient Navigator is free and open to the community. There is no charge.
My cancer is in remission. Can I still see the Patient Navigator?
Yes! The Patient Navigator is for people across the cancer continuum, from first diagnosis through survivorship.