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Seven ways you can help when a friend’s child is diagnosed with cancer
Advice from Natasha, mum to Sebastian, who was diagnosed with cancer of the bowel at 18 months old.
Tell your child the truth as they will sense it anyway We used hold Sebastian down for his port access and NG tubes but we would tell him it will be a quick ouchy and then it will feel better. It’s heart-breaking seeing your child in pain but if you tell them it won’t hurt they won’t trust you when you actually mean it. If you’re at the Marsden or a hospital with parent washing machines Take your washing powered and softener it makes you feel so much better having clean clothes that smell like home. Most of all cry and talk when you need to In oncology you become one big family everyone understands each other’s pain.
Ask friends and family to visit When you are in hospital for weeks on end those few hours visits really give you something to focus on. Don’t Google anything We didn’t Google but know people that did and they found some really damming stuff. Every child is different so listen to your consultants not goggle. Meals are vital We didn’t have a hot meal for two weeks after Sebastian’s diagnosis and when we finally had one it made us feel so much better. If friends and family can bring you meals let them. Listen to your instincts You know your child better than anyone. You will have to become their advocate and fight for them. Ask questions whenever you need to.
Patient Story – Sam S
Five year old Sam was having terrible pains in his neck and hip. Weeks later, and after many tests, he
