Children of advanced cancer patients need better support: A case report
Sujin Ann-Yi, Varsha Pawate, Victoria Necroto, Kathrin Milbury, Eduardo BrueraAbstract
Objectives
Parents navigating a cancer diagnosis are at risk for higher levels of distress and have reported needs including communicating a cancer diagnosis to their young children and preparing them for transition to end-of-life care. There have been few empirically validated interventions in the literature to address this unique population and their needs. Ensuring Children Have Optimal Support (ECHOS) program was developed in our tertiary cancer center to support entire families using strategies from evidence-based psychosocial and family-centered interventions. The program helps patients with cancer and their families communicate about the diagnosis with their children and promote family well-being.
Methods
A case study is presented to illustrate the specific needs of a cancer patient with children and demonstrate clinical interventions provided through our ECHOS program.
Results
Specific parental needs addressed included communication of diagnosis, preparation for death, and supporting anticipatory grief.
Significance of results
Our case study illustrates specific needs that cancer patients with children face. We recommend screening and family-tailored interventions for all cancer patients with minor children.