Nonprofit activities to support the employment of childhood cancer survivors

Abstract

After my daughter was diagnosed with acute myelomonocytic leukemia at the age of 7 years and was successfully treated, I began to support childhood cancer survivors and their families through various activities. In 2005, we established the Heart-link Mutual Aid program to resolve the difficulties faced by children with cancer in availing life insurance. Furthermore, in 2011, we established the nonprofit organization, Heart-link Working Project, to support childhood cancer survivors who have difficulty finding employment due to the late effects and in 2013 we opened the employment facility, Heart-link Cafe. Its aim is to provide support to childhood cancer survivors who live independently. Through our association, we provide instructions tailored to each individual and emphasize vocational social training. In particular, we focus on financial management education and encourage individuals to save from their salaries; moreover, childhood cancer survivors learn how to use honorifics and polite language to improve their communication skills. Through self-evaluation, they confirmed their growth and preparation for employment at general companies. However, through our employment support activities, we recognize that even with high abilities and knowledge, it is difficult for people to get hired by companies and that individualized education is necessary. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of becoming independent from parents. Other activities include the Childhood Cancer Follow-up Research Grant Project, charity concerts, and support for children in hospitals through live broadcasts and remote education. Finally, we call for medical professionals to support those who have difficulty finding employment.