17 Strong provides “Victory Trips” to young adults (ages 18-40) who have battled life-threatening illnesses. (Diagnosed after your 18th birthday or before your 40th birthday.)

A Victory Trip is a trip or experience that allows the recovering patient time to recuperate and reset while fulfilling a lifelong dream. Victory Trips include the recovering patient and a traveling companion.

Our qualifications are as follows. All trips are approved on a case-by-case basis pending board approval.

• Must be within the ages of 18 to 40 (diagnosed after 18th birthday and before 40th birthday).
• Must have battled a life-threatening illness such as cancer and have completed treatment (cancer-free). Unfortunately, chronic or terminal illnesses do not qualify for a Victory Trip.
• Must be cleared by your doctor to travel.
• Cannot have had a trip/experience from another organization.
• Must be a citizen of the United States.
• Must have completed treatment within two years of filling out your application.

If a candidate meets all the listed qualifications, they may fill out the Victory Trip application form. If you are interested in referring someone, you can forward the form to them to complete the application. Please note that the candidate’s medical professional contact information must be included, most importantly the nurse navigator or social worker that can confirm you have battled a life-threatening illness. Once we receive the form, we will contact the candidate for further information.

Ryan’s desire was for a trip to recover from the trauma of fighting a debilitating disease. A Victory Trip could be a trip or experience such as a trip to a destination of your desire, attending an athletic game, going to a concert, and more. You can check out the Fulfilled Victory Trips page to see what past recipients have done for their Victory Trip.

Candidates must have completed treatment and be cleared by their doctor before they are eligible for a Victory Trip. With risks of weakened immune systems from illnesses, we want to be sure you are not at risk during your trip.

As much as we’d love to help everyone, Ryan’s vision was for this to be a trip to celebrate completing treatment and returning to a healthy life. Please visit our Resources page to see a list of other organizations that may be able to help if you don’t qualify for 17 Strong.

The recipient may bring along one travel companion that will be financially covered on the Trip. Other companions may attend if they pay for their own flights and boarding. Our travel agent is happy to help coordinate flights and hotels to ensure your group remains together throughout the trip.

What we cover may depend on the experience you choose. We cover your flights, lodging, resort fees and may help you book specific experiences on your trip. Our goal is to create a memorable experience that is not clouded by financial concerns.

You must submit an application and medical clearance from your doctor. Once your application goes through, our board will make the final decision. All trips are approved on a case-by-case basis and considered based on budgetary guidelines. Submitting the application does not guarantee a Victory Trip.

We realize that diseases like cancer are challenging, and things can change without your control. Therefore, if something arises and you are unable to go on your Victory Trip please inform us as soon as possible, and we will work with you to accommodate as best we can.

17 Strong respects the privacy of the young adults it serves. All medical information is considered confidential and is not discussed with outside parties unless it is required for the Victory Trip and the applicant/recipient has given their consent.

17 Strong does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, gender identification, national origin, native language, disability, marital status, age, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.