By Ann Guerrisi-Hawn, Penn State
Frightened? Discouraged? Confused? Children are affected, too. When a child hears that someone close to him has been diagnosed with cancer, he may feel all these things and more.
Children, like adults, can benefit from professionals who understand their needs, as well. CLIMB (Children’s Lives Include Moments of Bravery) is a free, five-week program designed to help children cope when someone they love has cancer. Each week, the child attends a session focusing on a select topic and related craft project. The child’s loved ones are welcomed into a support group at the same time. The program increases their understanding of cancer and its treatment, as well as allows children to form new friendships and bonds with others going through the very same thing.
All sessions are facilitated by a health care provider who is specially trained in the care of families coping with cancer.
Who: Children ages 6-11 whose parent or grandparent has cancer
When: Beginning Thursday, Sept. 16 (five consecutive Thursday evenings)
Time: 6-8 p.m. (Dinner provided; note special dietary restrictions)
Location: Penn State Hershey Breast Center, 30 Hope Drive, Entrance A, Conference Rooms 1710 A and B, Hershey, Pa.
To register, call Michelle Farnan at 717-531-7942.