I think it’s safe to say every parent who has had their child diagnosed with cancer realizes that the cancer treatment itself is the heart of the battle.

But with your “battle plan” in place you can begin to manage your child’s treatment in the best way possible.   

Next you need to “create your team.” Letting your family know about what you have just learned is very difficult. Not everyone responds or copes with a cancer diagnosis in the same way. Some will say nothing; afraid of saying the wrong thing. Others may become uncomfortable and distant. Whatever the reaction, remember, in time, friends and family will become more at ease and offer compassion and most importantly, offer you the help and support needed as you travel down this difficult road. You will learn that this time will call for a lot of readjustments. I call it finding the “new normal.” New routines as well as planning out what the day holds and what will be needed and expected of Mom, Dad as well as your child are all things that will become part of your new normal day.

Keep in mind that knowledge gives you power and optimism will prepare you for all that lies ahead.  As I mentioned, everyone's journey is different, but never easy. Please feel free to share with us your experiences and how you managed those earliest moments surrounding your child's diagnosis or that of someone you know or care for. And of course please check back next week for part two: Five Key Ways to Locate the Best Cancer Treatment for My Child.

Photo credit: mathewcrawford