Cancer Survivor Launched Atlanta Nonprofit The Cairn Project

The organization aims to help young adult survivors find identity and balance after completing cancer treatment.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Cancer

Cancer Survivor Launched Atlanta Nonprofit The Cairn Project

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Owen Abeles, a Stage 3 Hodgkin Lymphoma survivor based in Atlanta, has established a new nonprofit called The Cairn Project. The organization is designed to provide resources for young adults transitioning out of cancer care.

Why it matters

Abeles started the project after identifying a distinct lack of support systems for young adults who have completed their treatment. He intends to help others navigate the recovery process by focusing on identity and balance.

Abeles underwent 6 months of chemotherapy at Piedmont Newton following his 2022 diagnosis. He is currently 3 and a half years into remission.

The players

Owen Abeles

He is a blood cancer survivor and a master's student in bioethics at Emory University who is establishing a nonprofit for young adult survivors.

The details

The Cairn Project draws on Abeles personal experience using cooking as a meditative tool during his own recovery. The nonprofit aims to bridge the gap in long-term support for young adult patients.

Abeles was diagnosed with Stage 3 Hodgkin Lymphoma in 2022.
Programming for the nonprofit is expected to launch at the end of the 2026 semester.

The Big Picture

This effort aligns with the national observation of Blood Cancer Awareness Month, which serves as a platform for survivor-led advocacy. The project follows a growing trend of patient-led initiatives aiming to fill gaps in traditional post-treatment care.

The nonprofit offers a new resource for young adults in the Atlanta area seeking identity-based support after finishing treatment. It provides a unique community-driven alternative to standard follow-up care.

The takeaway

Survivors can leverage their personal healing journeys to develop creative support systems for others navigating similar medical transitions. Finding a meditative outlet like cooking can be a vital component of long-term recovery and mental balance.