A guide for parents: Coping when your child has a chronic illness

April 30, 2018
A guide for parents: Coping when your child has a chronic illness

Find and build a support network

  • Join a local or online support group for parents whose children have the same health issue to share your experiences and tips.
  • Find a way to communicate updates about your child whether you send a weekly email or set up a social media page to keep friends and family informed of what is going on and how they can help.

Take time for your relationships

  • Writing a note, texting or calling to check in with your partner or other children can go a long way to bolster those relationships. Make a point to connect each day and be open about what you all need to feel supported.

Remember to take care of yourself

Self-care is important for caregivers. Try your best to eat well, exercise, get sleep and practice stress reduction. Consider professional counseling or therapy if you are struggling with anxiety, depression or other mental health issues.

To find a physician or specialist, call our free physician referral service at 702-388-4888.

How to support parents whose child is sick

  • Ask how you can support the family, and emphasize how simple it is for you to help. Visit their home to lend a hand with cooking or running errands because once you're there, it'll be easier for them to accept assistance.
  • If there is a group of you supporting the family, create a schedule to alternate who drops off a meal each week or takes their other kids out for an afternoon. That way the help is organized and dependable.

Wesley Payton Childhood Cancer Foundation

The Wesley Payton Childhood Cancer Foundation collects brand new, never-used books for pediatric floors in Las Vegas area hospitals in memory of Wesley Payton, a 7-year-old boy who loved reading.

Send books to:

Wesley Payton Childhood Cancer Foundation
5016 Lone Wolf Ave
Las Vegas, NV 89131

Drop books at:

Volunteer desk in main lobby, ATTN: Pediatrics