I was 17 years old when I was first diagnosed with colorectal cancer, which makes me an adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivor. The topics that often arise for AYA patients — fertility, career/job, genetics, financial toxicity—have heavily influenced my life. The label of AYA cancer applies to patients diagnosed between ages 15 and 39. The AYA community is quick to say, “Once AYA, always AYA,” and especially because there are unique long-term side effects and challenges that need to be monitored and addressed throughout your lifetime. It feels like the younger people should sit down before you, those who are in the throes of dealing with everything AYA cancer brings.