Cancer is a very difficult topic for anyone, but it can be especially hard to discuss with children. When a parent is diagnosed with cancer, it can be difficult to know how to tell their children and how much to tell them.
It’s important, to be honest with your children and answer any questions. But it’s also important to remember that they are children and may be unable to understand everything. This guide will help you understand how to talk to your kids about myeloma and what to expect.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto
What is Multiple Myeloma?
Myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell. It is the second most common type of blood cancer after lymphoma. Patients with myeloma may have abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow, which affect the production of red and white blood cells, platelets, and other parts of the immune system.
Myeloma is usually treated with a combination of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other medications. In some cases, a stem cell transplant is necessary.
When talking to your children about myeloma, explaining it in simple terms and how it is treated is important. Try to emphasize that your doctor does everything he or she can to ensure you get better. It is also important to mention any side effects of treatment but explain that they are temporary and manageable. Myeloma drugs do not cause hair loss but if you are having a Stem Cell Transplant, it is a good idea to explain to your child that you will lose your hair from that process so they know what to expect.
Photo by Ivan Samkov
How will Myeloma affect our family?
Explaining the effects of your diagnosis on the family can be difficult, as it is hard to predict how each individual family member will cope with the news. You must provide assurances that everyone is doing their best to help you get better.
When talking to your kids about this, stress that you are still the same parent, even if you are undergoing treatment for myeloma. Explain how myeloma may impact the family, such as the need for additional support and understanding during this time. Assure your children that your family is still a team and that you will all help each other through this difficult period.
Finally, remind them that it is still important to take care of themselves, as families can support each other better when everyone is in good health. This may involve encouraging self-care, such as getting enough sleep and exercise, eating healthy foods, and engaging in activities they enjoy. Both myeloma and its treatments will lower your immune system. Having a healthy family around you will be valuable to you. Remind kids that it’s important to wash their hands frequently. If the kids are too young to help out around the home, asking them to wash their hands could be the “big” job that you need them to do for you.
Photo by Vlada Karpovich
How can we support each other?
It is important that family members remain supportive of each other during this difficult time. Invite children to talk about any worries or concerns they may have about their parent's illness. Acknowledge how hard it can be to cope with their parents being ill and talk openly about how you can ensure everybody is supported.
Encourage healthy communication where each family member can express their feelings, thoughts, and emotions without feeling judged. Ensure that children know they can come to you or any other members of the family if they need help. Reach out to additional support networks, such as family and friends, to help your family through this difficult time.
You may want to discuss practical ways in which children can help around the house. This could include taking on additional household tasks, such as preparing meals or tidying up. It is important to recognize that during this time, each family member will be able to offer different types of support, be it emotional or practical, and that each type of help is equally important.
Photo by Michelle Leman
What are the treatments for Myeloma?
The treatments for myeloma vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Treatment options for myeloma are tailored to each individual and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplantation, and drugs known as monoclonal antibodies or immunotherapy drugs.
Chemotherapy uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells. Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to kill cancer cells. Stem cell transplantation helps to replenish the body’s blood-forming cells after they have been destroyed by chemotherapy or radiation. Newer treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies and immunotherapy drugs, are designed to boost the body’s natural defenses against cancer.
Your doctor will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these treatments with you, depending on your individual case. Your doctor may also recommend clinical trials for new treatments for myeloma as these treatments can often be more effective. It will be important to discuss these treatments with your kids so they understand why some days you may want to stay in bed. Explaining will also help them understand why you are going to the doctor so often. They need to understand that your drugs should not be touched by anyone but you.
Find The Cure and On The Go Nurse tote bags available from Shop Wrenée
Where can I get more information?
Getting as much information as possible before making decisions about cancer treatments is important. Ask your doctor for more details and search for reliable information sources. Talk to other people with myeloma, such as family and friends, or look for support groups in your area. You can also find information online, including factsheets and advice from cancer charities and other trustworthy sources.
Your GP, a Myeloma Specialist, or a member of the cancer care team can provide more information about myeloma and help you to understand your diagnosis and treatment options. They can also explain ways to cope with the side effects of treatment, including how to manage pain, fatigue, and other symptoms.
Myeloma Takes Time Shirt from Myeloma For Life
Resources
In addition to discussing myeloma with your doctor, many resources are available to parents and children facing a diagnosis of Myeloma. These resources can help you better understand the disease, cope with the diagnosis, and make important decisions about treatments.
HealthTree Foundation is a great place to start. HealthTree offers a wealth of information and resources on everything from diagnosis to treatment and a wide range of helpful resources. The International Myeloma Foundation is another great source of information and support. They provide a variety of resources for both adults and children, including a point-by-point guide on how to talk to your child about their diagnosis.
In addition, many online resources are available through websites such as Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, and the American Cancer Society. These websites provide detailed information about Myeloma and answer common questions. Finally, support groups can be a valuable resource for parents, providing a space for sharing stories and advice on how to cope with a diagnosis of Myeloma.