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.
Jude Solley was diagnosed with mixed-phenotype acute leukaemia (MPAL) in 2021 aged 16. Now, 21, he explains how this caused him to struggle with body image issues, why he decided to reach out for help, and why he advises others to do the same as soon as possible.
Dr Nicola O'Donnell is a health psychologist and a researcher at the University of York. Here, she tells us about her research into the impact of retinoblastoma treatment on survivors’ body image and how her team is taking it forward to help those treated for other childhood cancers.
Dr Rebecca Mulholland is Senior Clinical Psychologist at Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Here, she explains how a child or young person might feel about changes to their appearance due to treatment, and how you can support them.
Kira Noble was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 2014 aged 11. Now 22, she explains the impact hair loss had on her during treatment, and how her experiences have shaped her choice of career.
The North Star Cancer Collective is a system-wide movement, bringing together people and organisations to improve cancer care for children, young people and their families. Guided by evidence, the North Star Cancer Collective works across the system – not just within individual organisations – to create a better future.
Chelsey Rowntree, Youth Support Worker at Candlelighters, shares what her work involves, what inspires her, and the difference supporting children and families affected by cancer makes to her every day.
