Young People
A cancer diagnosis disrupts your whole life. It can affect your confidence and puts any plans you had on hold.
Connecting Champions matches you with a mentor who shares your interests. Meet one-to-one online and build connections around your passions – be that sport, music, art, make-up and beauty, or other fields.
Connecting Champions offers:
Encouragement
from someone who believes in you
Distraction
through shared interests and creative conversation
Motivation
to explore your passions
Connection
Who is it for?
If you:
- Have or have previously had cancer
- Are aged between 12 – 24 (however, please get in touch if you know of a younger child who you feel would benefit from the programme).
- Are looking for encouragement, inspiration, or a positive focus!
- The programme is flexible and tailored to your needs, interests and circumstances.
"My son Jack was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic lymphoma in 2023. It was a horrible time for him and my family. A key turning in his treatment was the introduction of Cathal Cregg as his mentor. Cathal took the time out to link in with Jack on a consistent basis and learn more about his interests and how his life was progressing. This introduction helped rekindle my son’s love for the GAA and gaelic football. Cathal’s enthusiasm and generosity of spirit towards my son reflects the heart of a true Gael and Roscommon man. It made a big difference to Jack and my family in helping him regain his confidence and sense of purpose in his cancer battle. That meant a lot to us. "
Who are the mentors?
Mentors are people who:
- Share a passion or career interest with the young person
- Want to encourage, inspire, and uplift
- Are happy to offer time, conversation, and support
- They may be established professionals, creatives, athletes, or individuals with strong experience in their field.
- What matters most is enthusiasm, kindness, and a genuine desire to connect.
What does a connection look like?
Each connection is shaped around the young person. This might include:
- Informal conversations about shared interests
- Talking about journeys, challenges, and successes
- Creative encouragement or advice
- A positive space away from medical appointments and routines
- It may include insights into a career path
- A member of Childhood Cancer Ireland staff will always be on the call too
- The aim is not formal coaching or therapy, but meaningful human connection.
FAQs
What happens after I reach out?
Within a few days, we will reach out to you to set up a video call. We begin by sharing more about the programme and answer any questions you have. If you’re interested in participating, we dive into what you’re passionate and immediately begin the search for a local mentor! The mentor search typically takes eight weeks. We will keep you posted throughout our search.
How are mentors vetted?
All mentors undergo a thorough eligibility process including an application, interview, and Garda Vetting.
What supervision takes place during the visits?
A Childhood Cancer Ireland employee is on every single video meeting with the you and your mentor.
Is there an age cut-off and do I have to be in active treatment?
It does not matter what stage you are in during the cancer journey. Whether you were just diagnosed or are 10 years out of treatment, we are here and ready to find a mentor! The age range is approximately 12 – 24 but please do get in touch if you know of a younger child who you feel would benefit from the programme.
Do we have to pay anything?
No! The virtual programme is completely free!
How often can I expect to meet with my mentor?
You will meet your mentor either as a once off or over several months by video calls. The frequency is based on your need and your mentor’s availability. Meetings generally last 30 to 60 minutes. We will continue to discuss what you need and what is helpful to you.
What are the steps involved?
You reach out
We’ll schedule a video call with you and your parent (if you are under 16) to outline the programme and give you a chance to ask questions.
If you’re happy to go ahead, we’ll talk about your interests and what type of mentor you would like to meet.
We’ll search for a mentor that matches your interests. This can take up to 8 weeks and will keep you up to date on any progress.
Once we have found your mentor, we’ll tell you all about them and find out what you’d like to talk about with them.
Now it’s time for your first mentor video call! On the call will be you, your mentor, your parent (if you are under 16) and a Childhood Cancer Ireland team member will stay on the call (as will your parent if you are under 16).
You can decide to meet with your mentor once or over a few meetings.
