Hope Cancer Resources

Children's Lives Include Moments of Bravery

It's easy to forget that when an adult has a serious illness it affects everyone in their household, not just the grown-ups. Sometimes we don't know how much to tell our children about our diagnosis. Some people feel that children don't "need" to know things that might be scary or uncertain. We don't want to frighten them, but we also don't want to lie if the prognosis isn't good. But it doesn't take long for a child to figure out something is wrong when mom or dad is spending a lot of time in bed and suffering the effects of chemotherapy and/or radiation.

At Hope Cancer Resources we have materials that can help parents talk to their children about their cancer. They present potential questions and provide words that can be used to let them know what to expect through treatment and recovery. The bottom line is that it's okay for a child to be fearful, and to ask questions. And, if parents aren't sure how to answer those questions, we have social workers on staff who can help facilitate those conversations. There is strength in knowledge, and believe it or not - children can be a parent's greatest source of encouragement and hope. Let them be a part of the process.

In addition to one-on-one help and printed materials we have available, we also sponsor a support group that meets for six weeks at a time called CLIMB. It meets whenever there is enough interest, usually a couple of times a year. At the sessions, children meet as a group with a social worker. They are allowed to speak freely about their fears and ask as many questions as they like - or just sit quietly and listen if that's their preference. At the same time, parents are in a separate room learning how to help their children deal with the new priorities that may be taking over the family schedule. It's a time for all parties involved to become empowered and learn some techniques for stress management.

If you are interested in getting on the list for the next round of sessions for CLIMB, contact one of our social workers at 479-361-5847. In the meantime, we'll be happy to provide those materials mentioned above... feel free to ask.