How do I tell my friends and family that my child has cancer?
There’s some advice you need that you can only get from those who’ve been there. That’s why we’ve asked parents who’ve been through similar experiences to share their thoughts on topics that you’ve told us you’d like tips, advice and guidance on.
Unsure how to tell friends and family about your child’s diagnosis? Take a look at the tips from other parents below.
Ask for help
It’s difficult to find the time and energy to share the news with everyone, so it can be really helpful to ask people you trust to take this on for you.
We told a few important people and asked them to disseminate the news and updates so we didn’t need to keep repeating difficult conversations.
Ask a trusted other to deal with all but the closest people.
Be honest
Speaking honestly about what you are going through can help you share your anxieties and concerns and help others understand what you’re going through.
Be honest and tell them what you need and how you feel and ask them to do the same.
Tell them how they can help
It’s often difficult for friends and family to understand how they can help and support you. Being honest about what you need can help both of you work together to help your child in the best way.
People really struggle with not knowing what to do.
Reassure them although everything is uncertain, how they can help now.
Using social media
Making use of social media and other channels can really help if you need to keep a large number of people in the loop. But it might be worth thinking about this properly beforehand because people may ask questions you might not feel ready to answer yet.
We had a secret Facebook group for family and friends (specifically those who live abroad) where we could post updates on my daughter's progress so everyone could get the same news.
We’ve asked parents to share their tips and advice from their own experiences and what they’ve found helpful. But if you are worried about how to tell your friends and family, talk to your social worker or treatment team who will be able to give you more advice and guidance.
You can find out more about managing family life and cancer from CCLG.
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Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG)
You can find more information about managing family life and cancer from our friends at CCLG.
Visit the CCLG website for more informationGet a Young Lives vs Cancer grant
It’s not right that young people and parents have to worry about money when they need to focus on treatment and all that comes with it. So CLIC Sargent gives various grants, right from the moment of diagnosis, to help young people and families cope financially.
Find out more about getting a grantJoin our Facebook group for parents
Share your stories and experiences with other parents. Get advice or share tips to help others, and become part of a supportive community.
Join our parents and carers Facebook groupAre you a cancer dad?
Many dads spend less time in the hospital and don't get the same network of support. Feeling like you have to 'hold the fort' can be isolating and difficult, so it's extra important you have someone to talk to about your challenges.
Join our Mind the Chaps Facebook group for dads