Baby Talk - 9/14/17

Family members and friends want to help, but often times they just don’t know what to do. Believe me, the smallest things are often the most appreciated, especially when a child is involved. Here are just a few things that you can do to help a family that is struggling with a cancer diagnosis.

• A home cooked meal is always appreciated.

• If the family has additional children, rides to school and other activities may be needed.

• Pick up groceries for the family.

• Bring in mail and newspapers, if an extended hospital stay is necessary.

• Make lunch or bring lunch to the hospital for the caregiver.

• During better times, offer to sit with the sick child so the parents can have a break or spend time together.

• Invite siblings over for a play date or overnight visit.

• Cleaning the house, walking the dog, putting out the garbage, cutting the grass, changing the litter box, running errands, and doing laundry are all small tasks that will not go unnoticed.

• Provide support to the parents or siblings by being a good listener and providing positive energy.

Many offers of help come shortly after the diagnosis and the beginning of treatment, but remember that the family can be dealing with this for months, so don’t forget them after a few weeks.

What other ideas do you have for helping a family addressing cancer? Please, share.