Childhood cancer is a difficult subject for many, and families and children face unique challenges of having cancer at a young age. In the United States, about 15,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year. Click the button at the end to explore resources for children with cancer. These resources will help you understand what is happening and plan the next steps, give the child or their siblings a chance to “be kids,” or provide financial and in-kind assistance to your family.
What do I do?
This is a common question for families and loved ones of a child with cancer. While there are many steps to take, some of the most important are:
- Research your child’s cancer
- Learn each member of the medical team and their role
- Have open conversations with your child and other family members about what this diagnosis means
- Reach out to family members, friends, social workers, and religious or personally meaningful groups
The American Cancer Society discusses some of the first steps you can take. They also have great information about how to approach specific ages and some of the behavior/emotions you may see from those ages.
Where do I go?
Making treatment type and location decisions is a personal and family choice. Cancer Care Services does not endorse a specific treatment for cancer or a treatment location. Learning more about different available hospitals for your child and family is a helpful step in the cancer journey.
The American Childhood Cancer Organization has information about several different hospitals, including St. Jude and MD Anderson, (in addition to great coping information for you and your child).
You can also find location information about Children’s Oncology Group childhood cancer experts and facilities.
Who will help me?
Click the button below for organizations that assist children and families experiencing cancer. Many more organizations exist for specific cancers and age groups! Each program will have eligibility criteria, so it is helpful to have all of your and your children’s important documents (W-2, paycheck stubs, social security cards) available when applying. Click the button below to take a look at the different programs.
Having a child you love with cancer can be confusing and challenging. Cancer Care Services staff are here to help so that no one copes with cancer alone! We can help you find additional resources and will determine if you are eligible for our assistance programs, such as gas assistance or medication assistance. We can also connect you with in-house social events and counseling for children, if eligible. Contact us today at 817-921-0653 or fill out our online form here. We look forward to helping you!
– Written by Shawn Howard, LBSW
