Ways to support Childhood Cancer Patients

 

Hug Them:

Hugs can provide emotional reassurance, comfort, and a sense of connection to childhood cancer patients. They remind patients that they’re not alone in their struggle. This contributes to the patient’s resilience and ability to cope with the stress of the disease and treatment. 

For instance, the Hugs for Brady Foundation helps end pediatric cancer by funding advanced research, bringing joy to patients, helping families defray the cost of cancer treatments, and more. So, in a broader sense, “hugs” symbolize the comprehensive support system that aids in the fight against cancer.

Cheer them up:

Cheering up childhood cancer patients can have a significant positive impact on their emotional well-being.

It can help them cope with the stress and anxiety associated with their illness and treatment. Positive emotions can also promote resilience, helping patients adjust better to the life changes brought about by their condition. Moreover, it can lead to a deeper appreciation of life and its possibilities.

Talk with them:

Talking with childhood cancer patients can be incredibly beneficial for their emotional well-being. Open and honest conversations can build trust and help children feel valued. It allows them to express their fears and concerns, and provides them with accurate and helpful information about their condition.

Children often know when something serious is affecting their family. By talking about it, you give them the chance to express their worries and fears. This can make them feel more secure and less anxious.

Moreover, experts have found that helping children understand their condition, such as explaining that their blood or bones are sick, can be beneficial. For instance, some experts have helped children understand a tumor by naming it and referring to it by its name.

Take them outside to enjoy the weather:

Taking childhood cancer patients outside to enjoy the weather can have several benefits:

Mental Well-being: 

Being outdoors and enjoying the weather can uplift their spirits and improve their mood1. It can provide a much-needed break from the hospital environment and routine.

Physical Health: 

Sunlight is a natural source of Vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and the immune system. However, it’s important for them to wear sunscreen and protective clothing, as their skin may be more sensitive due to treatment.

Social Interaction: 

Going outside provides opportunities for social interaction with friends and family, which can be comforting and reduce feelings of isolation.

Connection with Nature: 

Being in nature can have a calming effect and help reduce stress and anxiety.

However, it’s important to note that the patient’s health status and weather conditions should be considered. For instance, extreme cold can make cancer grow and spread faster, and many cancer treatments cause dehydration, making patients more vulnerable to frostbite. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with healthcare providers before planning outdoor activities.

Give them something they will enjoy:

Giving childhood cancer patients something they enjoy can have several benefits:

Emotional Well-being: 

Enjoyable activities can provide a much-needed distraction from their illness and treatment, helping to uplift their spirits and improve their mood.

Normalcy: 

Engaging in familiar and enjoyable activities can provide a sense of normalcy and routine, which can be comforting during a time of uncertainty.

Expression: 

Activities such as art, music, or play can provide a safe and therapeutic outlet for expressing feelings and emotions.

Social Interaction: 

Enjoyable activities often involve interaction with others, which can reduce feelings of isolation and promote a sense of belonging.

Visit the hospital together:

Visiting the hospital together can be beneficial for childhood cancer patients in several ways:

Emotional Support: 

The presence of family and friends can provide emotional support and a sense of security.

Understanding the Condition: 

When family members visit the hospital together, they can learn about the child’s condition and treatment plan, which can help alleviate some stress and fear.

Communication: 

Visiting the hospital together allows for open communication between the child, family, and medical team.

Normalcy: 

The presence of familiar faces can bring a sense of normalcy to the hospital environment.

These actions aim to provide emotional support, improve the patient’s mood, and help them cope with their illness. They can also provide a sense of normalcy and routine, which can be comforting during a time of uncertainty. However, it’s important to remember that the patient’s health status and personal preferences should always come first.