Helpful Hints to Get Through Your Child’s Cancer Treatments
Advice for parents of a child with cancer.
These are just a few tips I learned along the way. I hope it helps.
Talk to the other parents, and listen to what they have to say. You are not alone in this, we are all fighting the same battle. These are the people that will help and support you the most.
Do not hesitate to ask for help. That means everybody, friends, family, teachers everyone. Most people don’t know how to help so do not feel bad.
Definitely do the fund raisers! This was a huge mistake I made….my husbands pride got in the way. There are alot more than just medical expenses. Travel, food, babysitters, time off work…etc. It all adds up.
Always keep track of your medicines. You need to know what meds your child is getting, when they get them and how long the meds are supposed to run. Also be sure that simultaneously running meds are compatible with eachother.I know this seems overwhelming, but you will have a protocol sheet and you can never ask too many questions.
Be prepared. I kept an overnight bag in the car at all times. You never know when your child will develop a fever and end up back in the hospital for a few days. Try to keep all your childs meds in one place, that way you only have one bag to grab.
Love your nurses. They are the most woderful and helpful people on the planet!
Try everything until you find something that works. This goes for food, pain meds, nausea meds…etc. There were some weeks where my child ate nothing but peanut butter cups! We were grateful, at least she ate. It also took 8 different concotions before we found the nausea meds that worked for her.
No one knows your child better than you. If you feel uncomfortable about something question why it has to be done. Look for an alternative. If your child is acting or feeling weird, call the nurse, call the doctor and don’t let up until they figure out whats wrong. Some things will be common reactions, there is nothing wrong with needing to be sure and double checking everything!
Most importantly, stay strong and stay calm, especially infront of your child. They will pick up on your distress. Everything you can do to keep your child stay positive and calm will help them. Kids are tough and they will get through all of it, with your help.
My daughter is in remission now. She has been through it all chemo, surgery, radiation, bone marrow transplants…etc. God bless and good luck to you all!
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