A cancer diagnosis is always unexpected and tragic. None of us like to see our children sick, especially sick with a serious illness. As a parent, you know that everything changes when you hear the doctor confirm your fears.
A million thoughts race through your mind – how will you explain what’s happening to your child? Why did this happen? How far has the disease progressed? How will we pay for everything?
To say that this experience is overwhelming is a painful understatement. Understand that taking care of your child means taking care of yourself. Keep reading – what you’re going through is normal. It may take time to process everything and figure out what you need to do.
This list of what to expect will make it all a little easier to sort through.
10 Things to Expect with a Child’s Cancer Diagnosis
#1 – Shock and Emotional Impact
All your emotions are normal, even the surprising and unexpected ones. You might feel guilt, anger, fear, grief, anxiety, and more. These emotions will come in waves, sometimes many at once, and may ebb and flow over time. If you’re having trouble coping with these feelings, try journaling or seek expert help from a counselor or therapist. You don’t have to suffer alone.
Some parents may feel they must put their feelings aside to focus on their child, but ignoring your emotions can harm your mental and emotional state.
#2 – Medical Evaluations and Tests
After the initial diagnosis, your child’s medical team will conduct further evaluations and tests to confirm the extent of the cancer, its type, and its stage. This may include blood tests, imaging scans, and biopsies. Some of these procedures may be scary or painful. Be sure your team explains it in a way you understand so that you can best prepare and comfort your child before, during, and after each procedure.
#3 – Treatment Plan
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, doctors develop a treatment plan tailored to the child’s condition. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination. Depending on the stage and severity of the cancer, this plan may last weeks, months, or even years.
#4 – Hospitalization
Hospitalization is very likely for a cancer patient. Parents may need to spend significant time at the hospital or treatment center. Prepare yourself for these long stretches. Some logistics to consider may include pet care, childcare, parking passes, keeping up with home maintenance and chores, transportation, work and school changes, and food.
#5 – Side Effects
Cancer treatments often have side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and changes in appetite. When the cure seems to make your child sicker in the short term, it can be tough for parents to deal with. Work with their care team and research ways to mitigate the effects of treatment.
#6 – Support Network
Building a dedicated support network is crucial. Parents can reach out to friends, family, and support groups for emotional and practical support. Many hospitals also have social workers and counselors at your disposal. Please – don’t try to do this alone. We all need a team to rally around us and our kids!
#7 – Financial and Practical Considerations
Cancer treatment can be expensive, and parents may need to navigate insurance coverage and financial aid programs. Additionally, logistical issues such as transportation and childcare may need to be addressed. Your family may even consider a temporary move to get to the right care center. Remember that some hospitals – like the renowned and respected St. Jude – treat their child cancer patients at no cost.
#8 – Long-Term Care
Childhood cancer survivors may need follow-up care and monitoring even after successful treatment. There can be long-term health implications alongside the chance of developing secondary cancers. This follow-up care is necessary for the best outcomes for your child’s life.
#9 – Educational Support
If the child is of school age, parents must work with their child’s school to ensure that educational needs are met during treatment and recovery. Most teachers are happy to help in any way they can. Additionally, you may consider alternatives like temporary homeschooling or hiring a private tutor.
#10 – Advocacy
Children, especially our little ones, don’t always know how to express their feelings and needs. As parents, our role is that of advocate. Be prepared to speak up on your child’s behalf. If something doesn’t seem right, speak up. Don’t be afraid to change hospitals or doctors if the quality of care doesn’t meet your standards.
For any parent, this journey is overwhelming and difficult. Anyone would feel overwhelmed by all they have to do, all the things they feel, and everything happening. You don’t have to walk this road alone. Welcome and seek support – it’s healthy for you and your family.