Loneliness shouldn't be a side effect of cancer.

When we talk about cancer, we often talk about treatments, scans, and survival rates. But there is a hidden epidemic within the diagnosis that we rarely discuss: isolation.

I am proud to serve on the board of Alike, a charity dedicated to one mission: ensuring that no one has to navigate their cancer journey in silence. We use technology to build a community where people can connect with peers who truly understand what it means to have their world turned upside down.

Why this mission matters now

The data on social isolation is staggering, particularly for those facing serious illness:

(1) The Health Toll: Recent studies show that chronic loneliness can increase mortality risk by as much as 26%–34%—an impact equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

(2) The Prevalence: In the UK, it is estimated that 83% of young people experience loneliness during or after their cancer treatment.

(3) The "Treatment Gap": While 4 in 5 people with cancer want to interact with others in a similar situation, many struggle to find a safe, dedicated space to do so.

Thank you for joining me in the fight against cancer loneliness.