Cancer Support Group for Children
When a parent, grandparent or close adult
relative is diagnosed with cancer, everyone in the family is
affected.
"Children Will Listen" is a free,
four-session program to address the informational, emotional and
social needs of children as their family goes through the cancer
experience.
It is not uncommon for children to
notice that their parent is:
- sleeping more
- receiving calls from the doctor of
hospital
- sometimes tearful
Life for the family may change
by:
- parents having less time or energy to
spend with their children
- children may be asked to take more
responsibility
Children may feel:
- sad, worried, nervous and confused
- helpless, scared
- angry, guilty
"Children Will Listen" has been designed to
educate children about the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, help
children understand some of the changes their parent may be going
through, and help children see that they are not alone.
Children may not ask
for help and support -- help them find a way.
Session
1
A cancer nurse specialist from St. Joseph's
will provide an overview of cancer. This will include types of
cancer and treatments, possible side effects - both physically and
emotionally. A "body model" will be used as a visual aid. The group
will be introduced to journaling as a way to help them express
their thoughts and emotions. The session will also include a tour
of St. Joseph's Cancer Center as chemotherapy and radiation therapy
machines are explained.
Session
2
Drama class - learning to express and
understand feelings through "play acting." The group will
experience different scenarios surrounding emotions such
as anger, sadness, happiness, helplessness, and hope... while
helping each other.
Music class - musical instruments, lyric
interpretation and song-writing will be used as a way to help the
individuals discover "their own song" as well as understand the
similarities may families experience.
Session
3
The "Art of Spirituality" session will use
self-expression though art, both individual and as a group.
Session
4
Sharing the experience and pizza!
Contact Us
The sessions are held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.,
one evening per week, for four weeks at St. Joseph's Medical
Center.
To learn more about this free program or
for information on the next series and registration, contact:
St. Joseph's
Regional Cancer Center
(209) 461-6874
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