Almost all children’s wards have facilities where parents can stay overnight. Brothers and sisters may be able to stay too. Most children, especially younger ones, want their family to spend as much time with them as possible. Your child may seem upset when you arrive or leave, and this can be difficult for both of you. Whenever you have to leave, make sure you say goodbye and tell your child and the ward staff when you’ll be back.
Being in the same surroundings all day where everyone is worried and frightened can be a great strain, so it’s often helpful to try to leave the ward for at least one short break during the day. The nursing staff will understand this and encourage you to take regular breaks.
You can usually visit your child in hospital whenever you want – the ward staff will be able to tell you if there are any restrictions. Visits from the wider family and school friends can be good for your child. But remember, it can also be tiring for them if there are too many people visiting at once. It’s also important that anyone who wants to visit is well and doesn’t show any signs of infection.
It’s okay to talk about your feelings or worries with the nurses or social worker. They are experienced in caring for children with cancer and are there to help and support you. Many wards have teachers and play specialists. Children who are feeling well enough can attend the hospital school.
Many people will be involved in looking after your child, both at home and while they are in hospital.
More and more hospitals now have specially designed wards or units for teenagers with cancer. Organisations such as Teenager and Young Adults with Cancer (TYAC) and the Teenage Cancer Trust (TCT) work to improve cancer services for teenagers. Teenagers can meet people of their own age which, along with the surroundings and experienced staff, can help them get the support they need.