How to Help Kids With Cancer

Having cancer is a nightmare, but with the right support, children can pull through with their spirits intact. You can reach out to individual kids with cancer, or you can help by working with an organization. Aiding the parents is another way of assisting the child.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Read about cancer to learn about a specific cancer the person you are visiting has. The National Cancer Institute website is a good place to begin your research.
2. Contact your local hospital to learn about volunteer opportunities on a pediatric cancer floor. Hospitals often have a traveling library or media center run by volunteers. Hospitals also look for volunteers to bring flowers that have been delivered to the hospital to their recipients.
3. Spend time with a hospitalized child to give the parents a break. While they go for a walk in the hospital or get a cup of coffee, read to the child or play a game with him. Share a copy of the fun and inspirational video game "Re-Mission," all about kids fighting cancer. Whatever you do, treat the child as if he's healthy.
4. Bring the child a special treat, such as ice cream. A child on chemo isn't always interested in eating, but food from outside might entice her. Children on chemo often get mouth sores, so anything soft such as Jello, yogurt or a milkshake are good options.
5. Start a fundraiser. Hold a car wash, a banquet, take a collection from friends and family. Give the money you raise to the child's family or make a donation in a cancer patient's name. Options for charities are American Kids Cancer Fund or Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital.
6. Run errands for the parents. This will allow them to spend more time with the child.
7. Arrange to be a "Make A Wish" wish granter. Make A Wish gives terminally ill children a wish of their choice. Volunteers become wish granters and help the child to pick a wish, and then present it to the foundation. Contact your local chapter online.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask the child's parents for permission to bring the child food or anything from outside the hospital.