September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of childhood cancers, celebrate the incredible resilience of children and families, and remind those affected that they are never alone.
A childhood cancer diagnosis changes life in an instant. It brings uncertainty, fear and countless questions about treatment, the future and how everyday life will look for the whole family. While medical teams focus on treating the cancer, children and their loved ones often need emotional, practical and psychological support alongside that treatment.
At The Holistic Cancer Centre, we believe caring for a child with cancer also means caring for their family. Parents, siblings, grandparents and carers all experience the impact of a diagnosis in different ways. During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we’re highlighting the importance of recognising the emotional journey families face, understanding how to support children through treatment, and showing that compassionate care extends far beyond the hospital.
Understanding Childhood Cancer
Childhood cancer refers to cancers that develop in children and young people. Unlike many cancers in adults, childhood cancers are not usually linked to lifestyle choices or environmental factors. They happen because of changes in cells that researchers are still working to fully understand.
There are many different types of childhood cancer, including:
- Leukaemia, which affects the blood and bone marrow.
- Brain and spinal tumours.
- Lymphomas, which affect the lymphatic system.
- Bone cancers.
- Neuroblastoma and other solid tumours.
Every child’s diagnosis is unique, and treatments vary depending on the type of cancer, their age and their individual needs. While childhood cancer is rare, it remains one of the leading causes of illness-related death in children, making awareness and early diagnosis incredibly important.
Recognising the Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of childhood cancer can often look similar to common childhood illnesses, which can make them difficult to spot. Most children experiencing these symptoms will not have cancer, but persistent or unusual changes should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Some signs to be aware of include:
- Persistent or unexplained tiredness.
- Frequent or unexplained bruising or bleeding.
- Ongoing fever or repeated infections.
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite.
- Persistent headaches, particularly if accompanied by vomiting.
- Swelling or lumps that do not go away.
- Bone or joint pain that persists.
- Changes in balance, vision or coordination.
Parents know their children better than anyone else. If something feels unusual, continues for several weeks or doesn’t improve as expected, it’s always worth seeking medical advice.
Early diagnosis can help children begin treatment as soon as possible and can improve outcomes for many childhood cancers.
The Emotional Impact on Children
Children experience cancer differently depending on their age, personality and understanding of what is happening.
For younger children, hospital stays, medical procedures and unfamiliar environments can feel frightening and confusing. Older children may have more questions about treatment and recovery, while teenagers may worry about friendships, school, body image and missing out on important milestones.
Children don’t always express fear through words. They may become quieter, clingier, frustrated or withdrawn. Others continue to play and laugh, even while going through treatment.
There is no right or wrong way for a child to respond.
Creating opportunities for children to ask questions, express their feelings and maintain elements of normal childhood can help them feel more secure during an incredibly uncertain time.
Supporting Parents and Carers
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, parents often find themselves balancing hospital appointments, treatment decisions, work, finances and caring for the rest of the family.
Many parents describe living in “survival mode” during treatment. They may feel overwhelmed, exhausted and under pressure to stay positive for their child, even when they’re struggling themselves.
It’s important for parents and carers to remember that their wellbeing matters too.
Looking after yourself isn’t selfish, it’s an essential part of being able to support your child.
Emotional support, counselling, talking to trusted friends or joining supportive communities can help parents process the enormous emotional weight that often comes with a childhood cancer diagnosis.
Don’t Forget the Siblings
Siblings are often described as the “forgotten patients” during childhood cancer treatment.
While one child receives medical care, brothers and sisters may experience fear, confusion, jealousy or guilt. They may miss family routines, worry about their sibling or feel guilty for being healthy.
Children may not always know how to explain these emotions.
Parents can help by creating space for honest conversations, reassuring siblings that their feelings are valid, and making time for individual moments together whenever possible.
Even small routines, such as reading a bedtime story, sharing breakfast or spending an hour together, can provide reassurance during a difficult period.
Life During and After Treatment
Cancer treatment affects every part of family life.
School routines may change. Friendships may become more difficult to maintain. Families often spend significant amounts of time travelling to appointments or staying in hospital.
When treatment finishes, many families expect life to return to normal, but recovery often continues long after active treatment ends.
Children may experience fatigue, anxiety, changes in confidence or ongoing physical effects from treatment. Parents may continue to worry about follow-up appointments and the possibility of recurrence.
Recovery isn’t simply about physical healing, it’s about rebuilding confidence, finding a new routine and adjusting to life after cancer.
The Role of Holistic Support
Holistic care looks beyond the medical diagnosis and supports the emotional, physical and social wellbeing of the whole family.
At The Holistic Cancer Centre, we understand that every family’s experience is different. There is no single way to navigate childhood cancer, and support should be tailored to each person’s needs.
Holistic support may include:
- Emotional counselling for parents, carers and family members.
- Relaxation and wellbeing therapies to help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Creative activities that offer moments of calm and self-expression.
- Support groups where families can connect with others who understand.
Sometimes support means talking through difficult emotions. Other times, it means finding a safe place to pause, breathe and spend time with people who understand your journey.
Building Hope Through Community
One of the most powerful parts of holistic care is community.
Cancer can feel incredibly isolating, especially for families whose daily lives suddenly revolve around hospitals and treatment. Connecting with others who have walked a similar path can offer comfort, reassurance and hope.
Support doesn’t always have to be about discussing cancer. Sharing experiences, enjoying creative activities or simply having a conversation over a cup of tea can remind families that they are not facing everything alone.
Every act of kindness, every listening ear and every supportive space can make a meaningful difference.
A Message for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is about raising awareness, encouraging understanding and standing alongside every child and family affected by cancer.
If you’re a parent or carer navigating a diagnosis, know that it’s okay to ask for help. If you’re supporting a loved one, remember that simply being present can be one of the greatest gifts you can offer.
At The Holistic Cancer Centre, we’re here to support families through every stage of the cancer journey, offering compassion, connection and care beyond treatment.
Because childhood cancer affects an entire family, and no family should ever have to face that journey alone.
This September, let’s continue raising awareness, encouraging early diagnosis and reminding every family affected by childhood cancer that hope, support and understanding are always within reach.