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Abstract
The growing number of individuals living many years after a cancer diagnosis continues to increase, which results in a growing need to promote and ensure the physical, psychological, social, and economic well-being of cancer survivors. An understanding of the common experiences and shared meanings of young breast cancer survivors can inform the development of interventions aimed at meeting the needs of young women affected by breast cancer and, as a result, contribute to improved coping and quality of life. This study used a mixed-methods approach using quantitative and qualitative methods to determine themes that emerge from the dialogue of young breast cancer survivors. Results indicate that many young breast cancer survivors experience fears of recurrence and leaving their children behind, fertility issues, difficulties discussing cancer with children, feelings of guilt, emotional struggles, and the expectation that there are no hardships with survivorship.