05/09/2026
With Mother’s Day, graduations, prom, Father’s Day, and so many end-of-school events approaching, I wanted to share this again.
Going through Childhood Cancer treatment is extraordinarily isolating. Losing a child is as well.
If you know someone whose child is in treatment or someone who has lost a child, reach out to them. Remember their child.
Do not ask people what they need or what you can do. In my experience, it is more helpful to simply do something. Send flowers, food, a note, a gift card, a care package, text or simply check in.
If a child is in the hospital and unable to participate in school activities or milestones, there are still ways to make them feel included. Send videos from classmates or teachers. Make sure they are included in ceremonies and celebrations.
For Mother’s Day, think about the mothers sitting in hospital rooms with their children and do something extra for them.
I remember every person who reached out to me and who continues to do so. The people who remember birthdays, treatment milestones, anniversaries, and, for children who are no longer here, their birthdays and the anniversary of their last day in this world.
Nobody wants their child to be forgotten. I love hearing Eli’s name, and I think most parents who have lost a child feel the same way.
Nobody really knows the perfect thing to say during times like these, and it can feel uncomfortable or awkward. But most people appreciate knowing that someone thought about them or their child.
