Family Connections
For Parents
The Family Connections Program at Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center provides support and information to parents diagnosed with cancer. As part of this program, we have developed this comprehensive Web site that includes topics of concern to most parents facing a cancer diagnosis. In creating this site, we asked for input from many experts, including parents and children who have already faced this challenge, as well as the professionals who work with these families.
These materials are for both the parent with cancer and his or her partner or spouse. In the interest of simplicity, we have created this Web site as if we were talking directly to you, the parent with cancer. The information may be helpful to the many other people affected by your diagnosis, including your friends, relatives, and co-workers. So, if you are not the patient, as you read through these links, make the necessary changes to the information so that it fits your situation and role.
We have included here several important topic areas, but don't feel that you have to read all this material now. This site will still be here when you need it, so bring your questions and concerns to it as they arise.
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Talking with kids about cancer
Now that you have been diagnosed with cancer, you probably have many thoughts and questions about sharing this information with your children. This section will help you learn how others have faced this situation so you can decide what is best for your family.
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What children want to know
Most children will need to have some basic information about cancer and its treatment. This section identifies a few general areas to cover with them over the course of diagnosis and treatment, and guidelines on how to share this information.
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How to explain treatment
The information provided here will help you to decide what to say about your treatment, explain how treatment may change your family's day-to-day life, and figure out how to talk to your children about it all.
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How to help children cope
Children also have to cope with changes and worries when a parent is diagnosed with cancer. Review some suggestions on how to help them manage.
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Stress warning signs in children
How can you tell when your children's reactions might indicate that they are really struggling to cope with your illness? And what can you do once you suspect your children are feeling stressed? You will find here some general guidelines for determining when your children need extra support, and how to provide it.
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Talking with your child's school
Both you and your children can benefit from good two-way communication between parents and school personnel. This section offers advice on how to start this important conversation, and identifies what teachers and others at school need to know to help you support your children.
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For the well partner
You are deeply affected when your partner is diagnosed with cancer. In addition to your worry and concern, you often have additional emotional and practical responsibilities within the family. This section helps you to anticipate what to expect at this difficult time, and offers suggestions for coping.
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After treatment ends
When treatment is over, your family's situation changes yet again. Getting back to normal takes time, and certain issues predictably arise. Information provided here can help you to anticipate and cope with the challenges of this period.
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Questions parents often ask
Included in this section are questions other parents have asked ("What if I get upset when I talk to my child?") as well as questions that their children have asked ("Are you going to die?"). This section offers some suggestions to help you figure out what you want to say and do.
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Medical terms made easy
This link provides simple, clear definitions for many of the terms that you and your family may hear through your diagnosis and treatment.
