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The Development of Parent Support Group Program in Young Adult Cancer Care
Joan W Hanania1,2,3,4, Sarah Concannon Fay1, Meghan Donovan1
1Department of Supportive Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology
|June 5, 2026
Summary
A new virtual support program for parents of young adults with cancer significantly improved their sense of connection, knowledge, and ability to cope. The program was highly rated and recommended by participants.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychosocial Care
- Caregiver Support
Background:
- Young adults with cancer have unique developmental needs impacting their parents.
- Parents of young adults with cancer often lack adequate psychosocial support.
- Existing care models may overlook the distinct needs of parents in this demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a specialized virtual support group curriculum for parents of young adults with cancer.
- To address the unmet psychosocial needs of parents navigating their young adult's cancer journey.
- To adapt existing frameworks for program improvement in psychosocial oncology.
Main Methods:
- A six-session virtual parent support group curriculum was developed using a program improvement framework.
- The program was adapted for parents of young adults receiving cancer care.
- Participant feedback and evaluations were collected.
Main Results:
- 34 parents participated; 19 completed evaluations.
- The program was highly accessible (95%), relevant (84%), supportive (95%), and engaging (100%).
- Participants reported increased connection (79%), empowerment (90%), and coping capacity (79%).
Conclusions:
- A novel virtual support program shows potential for addressing overlooked parental psychosocial needs in young adult cancer care.
- The program effectively enhanced parental connection, knowledge, and coping skills.
- This intervention may fill a critical gap in psychosocial support for parents of young adults with cancer.
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