There is no right or wrong way to tell your children about your cancer diagnosis. It is important they know you are always there for them and they can discuss any questions and fears with you. Your nurse, social worker or doctor can help you through this process. Any change in their routine should be explained. They must realize that the cancer is not their fault and they will always be taken care of.
The American Cancer Society provides guidance for discussing your cancer diagnosis/treatment with your children.
Dana Farber Hospital provides a thorough guide to helping children of all ages through a parent’s cancer journey.
National Cancer Institute: “When Your Parent Has Cancer, A Guide for Teens” offers teen support information. Call: 1-800-4-CANCER.
Support Groups
According to the American Cancer Society, there is growing recognition that children whose parents have cancer can be helped by support groups. It is often comforting for children to be with peers who are going through the same thing they are.
Cancer treatment centers and many communities offer cancer groups for kids:
- Cancer support groups for kids should always be lead by professionals such as school teachers, guidance counselors or health care professionals who have experience with children.
- The best kind of cancer support groups for kids is often one which offers a parent cancer support group as part of the same program.
- Kids are often reluctant to go the first time but many benefit from some fun and being with kids who are experiencing the same thing they are.
- It is important to let your child’s teachers, coaches, school counselors and other adults in your child’s life know you are going through cancer treatment as they can help your child cope.
- The following organizations may have a list of children cancer support groups in your community:
Susan G Komen for the Cure or call 1-877-GO-KOMEN.
American Cancer Society or call: 1-800-ACS-2345.
Gilda’s Club online cancer support and club houses throughout the US, or call: 888-GILDA-4-U.
Online Cancer Support for Kids
Kidscope has a comic book and video which helps kids handle a caregiver’s cancer. Call: 1-404-892-1437.
KidsKonnected helps children of all ages cope with a parent’s cancer. KidsKonnected sponsors camps for all ages. Call: 1-800-899-2866.
Riprap is a British website featuring stories of young people who are going through a parent’s cancer and tips to help understand what is going on in families.
CancerCare has online cancer support groups for teens (age 13-19) with a parent with cancer. Remember confidentiality can never be guaranteed with online support.
Websites for Family Support
Cozi.com provides family cancer support by helping to manage a busy life. It includes, shopping lists, calendars, to do lists, a family journal, etc. Cozi is free and accessible from any computer or mobile phone.
Mypinkplanner.com allows moms to email friends/family to access a customized website where they can volunteer to help with chores, car pooling, etc.
