In this edition of Contact, we hear from several wonderful organisations who, through their various programmes, offer valuable practical and emotional support to siblings. Experts share helpful tips, advice, strategies, and resources for adults to help them support brothers and sisters, of all ages, of a child or young person with cancer. We also hear from parents and siblings themselves, who have kindly shared the challenges they’ve faced, as well as the support they’ve received, and from whom, along the way.
How might siblings be affected by their brother or sister's cancer?
What can help them?
We know that siblings of children or young people with cancer may often experience natural feelings of fear, jealousy, guilt and loneliness as their family navigates a hugely challenging time, and one of great upheaval for all, including the brother or sister of the poorly child or young person.
Hopefully, this gives an idea of just what help and support is out there and what it may look like.
When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, this is felt across the whole family, and though not undergoing treatment themselves, siblings are often affected in ways that may be less visible but deeply felt. Here, Dr Claire Wright, Clinical Psychologist at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, explains how siblings might feel, and offers tips and advice to help support them.
Colette Robinson-Mellor's daughter, Hollie, was diagnosed with an eye cancer, called retinoblastoma, aged 13 months in 2024. Here, Colette tells us how Hollie’s brother, Ted, who was four at the time of his sister’s diagnosis, helped and supported the whole family, and how they also navigated his own worries.
Evie Mattison was nine years old when her brother, Dan, was diagnosed with leukaemia as a teenager in 2014. Here, she describes what helped her during Dan’s treatment, and how her family’s experiences have shaped her life, studies and ambitions.
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