Experiencing relapse or recurrence
Introduction
Hearing that your child’s cancer has returned is devastating, and it’s a moment no parent ever wants to face. It can feel like the ground has shifted beneath you all over again. At Childhood Cancer Ireland, we are here to support you and your family through this incredibly difficult time.
On this page, you’ll find information, emotional support, and ways to connect with others who understand. You can reach out for support or information at any time.
Emotional support for the whole family
Parent Peer Support
Experiencing a relapse or recurrence brings complex emotions, including fear, uncertainty, anger and grief. It may help to connect with a parent who has been through this experience. Through our Parent Peer Support Programme you can speak to someone with experience of relapse or recurrence for support, reassurance and to signpost you to other supports that might be helpful.
One-to-one psychological support
We provide tailored one-to-one psychological support specifically for families facing a relapse or recurrence, including parents, siblings, and young people themselves.
Play therapy / psychotherapy
Our Play Therapy / Psychotherapy programme provides children, adolescents and siblings with a safe and therapeutic environment to express their emotions and process the complex experiences associated with a cancer diagnosis and the experience of relapse or recurrence.
Not all children require this therapeutic intervention, so we also offer Parent Advice Sessions, which helps to guide parents through supporting your children.
Financial support
We provide a grant for families experiencing a relapse and/or recurrence of their child’s cancer. Referral for this grant must be made by a member of your child’s medical or social work team.
Through our partnership with LIA, the Centre of Excellence for the education and development of financial professionals, we also offer free access to financial advice, information and planning to help you manage your finances. You will be matched with a Qualified Financial Advisor in your area to access this free support.
Family Events
Childhood Cancer Ireland holds different family events throughout the year, which provide an opportunity to meet other families and build a community of others with a shared experience.
Add video ‘About the Walk’ here.