We know that living with cancer as an adolescent or young adult (AYA) comes with unique challenges other cancer patients may not experience. We’ve been there, and we’re here to walk alongside you.
At Rutledge Cancer Foundation (RCF), our mission is to ease the emotional, physical, and financial burdens that AYA cancer patients face today, while also working tirelessly to fund research that will increase survival rates and, one day, find a cure for Ewing sarcoma and other solid tumor cancers.
Whether you’re in the midst of treatment or navigating the journey of remission, we are here to offer you and your loved ones support, resources, and programs we hope make life a little easier.
Most importantly, we hope to connect you with others who truly understand your journey—because no one should have to face cancer alone.
We have several patient programs created to support and meet the unmet needs of AYA cancer patients throughout their journey.
Carley’s Closet provides New Diagnosis Bags, pouches and stockings during the holidays filled with age-appropriate comfort and entertainment items to make an AYAs patient stay in the hospital more comfortable.
RCF, in partnership with Moncrief Cancer Institute, helped develop the first ever collaborative, community-based fertility preservation program which provides patients with fertility preservation education, care coordination, and financial assistance for patients who qualify.
We partnered with Moncrief Cancer Institute to develop and implement an online psychosocial screening tool that identifies distress in AYAs with cancer, enabling real-time intervention through a personalized care plan and physician training.
Caregather is an online resource, powered by Rutledge Cancer Foundation, that allows family and friends of AYA cancer patients to stay connected and informed during their cancer journey.
Our patient events create a supportive and uplifting space where patients and survivors can connect, share experiences, and access valuable resources. Designed to foster understanding and encouragement, these gatherings offer a fun and welcoming atmosphere to enjoy with family and friends while making lasting connections with others who truly understand the journey.
First Descents provides free life-changing outdoor adventures for young adults (ages 18-39) impacted by cancer and other serious health conditions. The Wyatt Donahue and Lawson Penny Memorials at RCF funds First Descents travel scholarships to give young adults the opportunity to experience the healing power of adventure.
To apply for a travel scholarship, fill out an application at firstdescents.org and mention “Rutledge Cancer Foundation” under “How Did You Hear About Us.” Limited spots available and priority is given to our medical center partners.
Camp Mak-A-Dream empowers survivors and their families to live with and beyond cancer through life-changing Montana experiences where they strengthen life skills, gain resilience and develop lasting relationships.
To apply for a travel scholarship, fill out an application and mention “Rutledge Cancer Foundation” under “How Did You Hear About Us.” Limited spots available and priority is given to our medical center partners.
Looking for more information on, support organizations, and helpful resources? We’ve got everything you need right here.
We fund patient programs that address unmet emotional and physical needs.
We work as a catalyst to increase awareness and early detection.
We support research for less toxic, personalized cancer therapies.
