Family matters

While it is important to try to maintain as normal a family life as possible, it is also vital to have realistic expectations. A diagnosis of leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma or a related blood disorder can cause a tremendous amount of stress within a family and, where children are involved, it can be especially difficult.

The demands of treatments and tests bring many disruptions to normal family routines and day-to-day lives and trying too hard may result in putting further stress on you and those around you. Sometimes, just accepting that things will be different for some time can reduce stress. It is important for your family to talk about what each person needs and to acknowledge that these needs can change over time. If necessary, you should seek professional help to deal with the difficult issues you are facing.

It can be helpful to set priorities about what needs to be done to keep family life running as smoothly, and as near to normal, as possible. It is also important to think about various family members and friends who may be able to help by cooking, cleaning, taking children to and from school, or simply looking after the family pet. In most cases, people are only too willing to help if they can, especially if they are given specific tasks.

Children need a great deal of support, guidance and love after a family member has been diagnosed with blood cancer. Reassurance and giving them opportunities to talk about how they feel is important. Keeping, where possible, to normal routines like bedtimes and having a reasonable and consistent approach to discipline is also important. They can help the child feel more secure, when so many other things appear to be changing within their family.

There are many people who can help you and your family cope with the practical and emotional difficulties you may be experiencing. Our Support Services Co-ordinators at the Leukaemia & Blood Foundation can provide you with understanding, identify strategies that will help you and your family cope during and after treatment, and, if needed, refer you on to other agencies. Click here to contact them.