2025 Volume 21 Issue 1 Pages 72-76
Background: Since the 1980s, illness memoirs have been recognized for their therapeutic and educational value. Recently, young adults have increasingly utilized video platforms for self-expression, social support, and meaning-making. AYA cancer survivors often face socioeconomic challenges, particularly regarding employment, even after treatment. Therefore, long-term career support and reintegration are crucial. Sharing cancer experiences on platforms like YouTube may serve as “meaningful work,” enabling selfexpression, social connection, and potential income. This study presents two AYA cancer survivors who used YouTube post-treatment, highlighting aspects of recovery, reintegration, and employment.
Case 1: A patient with peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. An occupational therapist (OT) supported physical activity during hospitalization and introduced video creation post-discharge. At 1,828 days posttransplant, the patient achieved full ADL independence (SPPB 12/12, A-QOA probit 3.55 ± 0.27). The videos showed natural engagement but reflected uncertainty in collaborating with healthcare professionals to improve information quality.
Case 2: A patient with a left forearm bone/soft tissue tumor adapted to one-handed ADLs and produced videos on adaptive techniques and social interaction. One year post-surgery, the patient was ADL-independent (TESS 97.2%, A-QOA probit 4.47 ± 0.28). While socially reintegrated, the patient struggled to articulate the concept of “disability.”
Conclusion: Post-treatment video creation functioned as meaningful occupational engagement with therapeutic and social benefits. OTs played a vital role in support. Further research should explore candidate selection and integration into rehab and employment programs.
