support group for kids?

Methusala

hi,
where can I find a support group for my 15 almost 16 year old daughter? does such a thing exist? we live in a very small town.
also, how do I explain all this craziness to my 4 year old?
I'd like kids' opinions too, anyone, sometimes kids' really do have something to say.

figsgirls

Is there a Gilda's Club near you? They have a ton of different things going on there, including all kinds of things for family members.

GOOD LUCK.

fireba

My daughter is right in between your two children - she's nine. Gilda's Club has been terrific for her, but at our chapter at least, they don't have much in the way of preschool or teen groups. But you might call the closest one anyway, and see what they can suggest. There's another group called CancerCare that has chapters on the east coast, but also has online and telephone support groups for teen children of parents with cancer. Your daughter might enjoy an online group. And Kids Konnected doesn't have very many locations (mostly in California), but they also do telephone groups, list some resource books on talking to kids of different ages, and do a "teddy bear outreach" for younger kids.

For your younger child, I would speak to her in very simple language, talking about being sick, that your chest might be sore, that you will be seeing the doctor a lot while you get better, that you might be tired at home, your tummy might hurt, and your hair might fall out while you take your medicine. My "chemo buddy" used this type of language with her 3yo and 5yo and thought that it went really well. They won't understand much more than that, and of course, you don't want to scare them. But they will recognize that you are not quite the same mommy, so you do need to share some information and reassurance.

Your teen might also be comforted by attending some of your appointments and being able to ask questions directly to the doctor. Oh, and your hospital might have programs for family members, too, or be able to suggest additional resources.

I hope some of this helps.

CherrylH

I want to add a vote for Gilda's Club. Here in Chicago they have a great facility that has support and activities for kids of all ages. I hope you have one near you. Best wishes for you and your family.

love,
Cherryl