There are many other ways to make a difference. It doesn’t take much to make a difference to one child or one family.
You can make a difference for a young cancer patient.
Share, share, share news about childhood cancer
Childhood cancer makes people uncomfortable, but if we’re going to fund research to find cures, people must be aware of the needs.
Simple ways to help a family with a sick child
If you know a family with a child who has cancer, your first move should be specific. Everyone says, “Let me know if there’s something I can do.” Families are usually overwhelmed. Offer a specific item: I can bring a meal for you one night this week, or I can baby-sit for you on Saturday.
- Share news about September being Childhood Cancer Awareness month on social media
- When you find stories about cancer fundraisers or brave kids who are fighting the disease, spread the word. If people don’t know about it, they can’t join the fight.
- Take their dog for a walk. Chances are Fido isn’t getting much attention these days.
- Don’t forget siblings. Their world can be turned upside down when a brother or sister is diagnosed with cancer. Pay them special attention, bring them a gift when you visit and just spend quality time with them.
- Rake the leaves or cut the grass. It’s hard for working families to get to these chores. Imagine spending your days with family in the hospital worrying about the state of your yard.
- Bring a meal. Ideally, make one that can be frozen and pack it in containers that do not need to be returned.
- Buy the family a cooler to keep outside the door so meals can be left there as they run in and out to appointments.
- Run errands. Ask the family or a relative what their immediate needs are—dry cleaner, grocery, picking up a package?
- Help with child care. Ask if there’s a specific day you can help. Or, if your schedule permits, do something consistent like driving a sibling to school or practice.
- Stick around. Many families find friends and relatives are very helpful when a diagnosis is made, but cancer treatment takes time. Helping out the family six months later still will be appreciated.