FINALIST 2026
At Young Lives vs Cancer, we support children, young people and families from the moment a cancer diagnosis turns their world upside down. We created Sam’s Story: A Journey Through Cancer to shine a light on the emotional, social and psychological impact of cancer, the parts of the experience that often go unseen, but shape every day of treatment and life beyond.
We needed a film that felt authentic, relatable and representative of any young person. We worked with creative agency, MOREVER. They developed a gender-neutral character whose story draws from real experiences shared with our social workers over many years. Through a scripted voiceover crafted from genuine case study material, the film captures the fear, isolation, resilience and hope that define a young person’s cancer journey.
Visually, the animation offers a window into a young person’s subconscious, using painterly, sketch-like artwork and a minimal colour palette to express feelings words can’t always hold.
The result is a powerful story that helps people truly understand what young cancer patients face. It has made a substantial impact, driving empathy, awareness and deeper engagement with our mission to ensure no young person has to face cancer alone.
When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Playtime is stopped. Independence is taken. Confidence is stolen. It can result in years of education missed, careers put on hold just as they’re starting. It’s spending days desperately trying to navigate complex systems just to get basic support. It’s missing out on experiences and not getting the chance to enjoy new relationships. It’s watching countless opportunities pass by as debt begins to pile up.
Young Lives vs Cancer is the leading UK charity for children and young people with cancer and their families. From the moment of diagnosis, its specialist social workers provide day-to-day support for each child, young person and family, from information and guidance to financial support. It works in all the main children’s cancer treatment centres across the UK, working closely with doctors, nurses and other NHS professionals as an integral part of the team caring for children and young people with cancer. It helps them to navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer, removing barriers, solving problems and prioritising wellbeing. By taking the the time to understand what matters most, stopping at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time.
We align with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals:
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