Get to Know the Founder of Cancer Friends Connect

Matthew Fussteig is the founder of Cancer Friends Connect. When he was just eight years old, his mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, and his whole family’s life was turned upside down. He knows firsthand the importance of finding support when a parent is going through cancer. During his mom’s treatment, he didn’t know anyone else in a similar situation. He became the kid at school whose mom had cancer, which was stigmatizing and isolating.

He wished he had a community of peers who could understand and relate to what he was experiencing. That’s why he started Cancer Friends Connect—to bring people together for conversation and comfort and to share his wisdom from having been through it. Matthew is thrilled to connect with teens who may be feeling alone, and to listen and understand as a trusted peer.

Olivia Edelman is a former teacher and a certified Teen Life Coach. She lost both her parents to cancer at a young age, so she understands how difficult things can be. When her parents were sick, she wished for a supportive group like this one, where she could find solace and guidance surrounded by other teens in a similar situation.

Cancer Friends Connect is a safe space for teens to unite, knowing they are not alone. It’s a place where hope can flourish, and they can see firsthand that they will be okay. Olivia welcomes you to our community.