Children can have an especially hard time when a parent is ill. They are sensitive to changes in their routine and changes in who cares for them. It is important to try to maintain a regular schedule for them. Talk with them, in an age-appropriate way, about what to expect through the transplant process. They are much more able to handle what is going on if they have honest information. Be sure to tell them how their needs will be taken care of through the transplant process. Providing them with an outlet to talk about normal feelings and fears that come up as their parent goes through a transplant is essential. Sometimes a parent is unable to hear all of their fears without feeling they need to “fix it.” A referral to a child therapist or group specializing in working with children whose parent is ill may be helpful. Please ask for a social worker for assistance if you need some direction or referrals.
Ava + Bo Video Series for Kids through Be the Match explains what a bone marrow transplant is to children:
Other references:
Book Recommendations:
- Butterfly Kisses and Wishes On Wings - Ellen McVicker
- Cancer Hates Kisses - Jessica Reid Sliwerski
- My Parent Has Cancer And It Really Sucks - Maya Silver and Marc Silver (great for Teens)
- The Cancer That Wouldn't Go Away - Hadassa Field (for our metastatic patients)
- What Happens When Someone I Love Has Cancer? - Sara Olsher
- Making It Mine: Stories Of Teens Who Found Themselves In Their Parents' Cancer - Brie Bernhardt
- In Mommy's Garden - Neyal J Ammary-Risch, Christopher Risch.