Who We Are
118 Foundation is committed to helping young people, ages 18-39, make their comeback from cancer, restoring trust in their futures and freedom to live fully—because sickness is not their story.
The 118 Foundation leans into three concepts to guide its work and fulfill its mission:
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Humility
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Hope
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Complete healing
Each of these concepts was perfectly personified by Jesus Christ as he walked the Earth. Our founder, Sadie Lackey, used these ideas to guide her to healing from cancer, and this journey and her faith inspired the 118 Foundation. While there is no secret formula to overcoming cancer, 118 believes these three concepts are key to finding refuge, restoration, and freedom during the healing process.
Who We Serve
The 118 Foundation supports young adults ages 18–39 who are facing cancer, often called the AYA (Adolescent and Young Adult) community.
AYAs experience cancer differently than children or older adults. Their challenges include:
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Falling in the gap: Many AYAs are too old for pediatric care but don’t feel supported in adult oncology settings.
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Disrupted life milestones: College, first jobs, dating, marriage, starting families — cancer interrupts these key seasons of life.
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Unique health risks: Higher chances of infertility, long-term side effects, and recurrence compared to other groups.
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Financial strain: From student loans and childcare costs to medical debt and time away from work, the financial weight can be crushing.
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Identity & independence: Facing cancer in early adulthood can derail a sense of self, independence, and confidence in the future.
That’s why the 118 Foundation exists: to stand in the gap, restore dignity, and bring hope to young people fighting through and beyond cancer.
The Fine Print
118 Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and a recognized non-stock corporation in the state of Virginia. All donations can be tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. FEDERAL TAX ID: 932292924