• Will genetic testing be performed on my child’s tumor? • What treatment choices are available? • What treatment do you recommend and why? • What is the order of treatment for my child? • How long will my child be in treatment?
• What risks or side effects does the recommended treatment have? • What are the long-term risks from the disease and the treatment? • What should we do to prepare for treatment?
• What is my child’s outlook for survival? • What are the chances of a recurrence?
• Who are the members of my child’s healthcare team and what are their roles? • What financial, psycho-social, and other resources are available for my child and me? • Will all treatments be given in the hospital? • How many cases of neuroblastoma have you treated in the past year? Use this space to write down any additional questions.
n ARE MY FEELINGS NORMAL, AND WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT THEM? Many families feel that they are somehow responsible for their child’s disease. They may feel guilty that they could not protect their child from illness or about the amount of time it took to diagnose their child. This disease is not caused by anything that you did or did not do. The cause of childhood cancer is not known. Symptoms are often the same as many childhood illnesses, so it often takes some time for the diagnosis of cancer to be made. Feelings of sadness, anger, and helplessness about your child’s diagnosis also are common. These feelings are normal. Each member of the family may express these emotions in different ways and at different times. Talking honestly with each other about these feelings, emotions, and reactions will help everyone in the family. Keep in mind there is no right or wrong way to feel. Each member of the family needs the chance to express their feelings when they are ready and in their own way. Talking to friends, family, and members of the healthcare team can be difficult at times— however, sharing your feelings can help you cope. Your child will benefit from family and friends showing their care through communication and support.
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