Coping with My Son's Cancer Relapse

Hi Maria, terrible situation for sure, especially when it involves the kids. Not dealing with the same situation; meaning a child with cancer, but I'm dealing with cancer myself and have highs and lows...more lows than I would like. I speak with a professional, family, and friends but sometimes that is not enough. Communicating my vulnerabilities and feelings on paper helps me. Just wrote two poems and trust me, I don't consider myself a poet but those who read them, love them and even cried from emotions. I have a 22-year-old son so I'll provide a father's perspective on Generation Z. It might help to have him communicate with kids his own age that are going through a similar experience. I find that people (especially young adults) feel more comfortable/relate with folks their own age than that with their own parents. Kids also don't want to hurt us (parents) with the truth no matter how important to them or us. It is certainly difficult to witness our children suffer or have a tough go at it. But know that you are not alone in this journey no matter how difficult or impossible it seems at times. God Bless.

https://outcomes4me.com/article/how-an-oncology-social-worker-can-help-you/

https://www.mskcc.org/event/young-adult-young-onset-support-group

Prayers

Gerry S. Good to hear that you’re writing poetry, we all need to find something to distract us and bring us some comfort even if it’s short term. Staying positive and focused on self care is important, I started journaling a while back, and have found it to be good to get my thoughts, emotions, and experience down on paper. It helps to know what your state of mind was at a certain time in your journey. You also see the progress you have made. .. wishing everyone a good day! Stay strong 💪 “Don’t Let The Bad Days Win” 🙏

Watching a child face cancer is one of the most challenging experiences any parent can endure, and feeling exhausted and anxious during a relapse is completely understandable. The fear around asking difficult questions is natural - many parents find it helpful to write down their concerns beforehand and remember that having information, even when it's hard to hear, often helps with making the best decisions moving forward.