Background Adolescents and young adult (AYA) survivors of cancer are an understudied population with unique developmental and medical needs that extend well beyond their active treatment. Survivors diagnosed as AYAs may experience both physical and emotional late effects. In particular, the experiences of Latino cancer survivors have not been explored. Objective The purpose of this study was to conduct interviews with AYA Latino cancer survivors to inform professionals working with these survivors. Design A hermeneutic phenomenological approach was selected based on the focus on experiences and meanings of Latino adolescents’ cancer survivorship. Phenomenology allows for understanding the subjective meaning and lived experience of populations that are understudied or marginalized. In-depth interviews were conducted with participants Participants Latino AYAs between the ages of 14–21 who were all post treatment. Results Interviews revealed seven themes regarding the experience and meaning of survivorship for this population: gratitude, humor/positive attitude, empathy for younger children with cancer, god and faith, cancer happens for a reason/cancer changed my life/, familial support, and staff relationships. Conclusions Latino adolescent and young adult cancer survivors develop meaning out of unique cancer experiences. Programs need to be developed specifically to address Latino adolescents and young adult survivors of cancer.
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