We just heard that one of my husband's students (he's a high school teacher) was diagnosed with cancer. We don't know the family very well, but obviously are concerned for their well-being. The other students in the class are also very concerned and looking for ways to show they care. I would be grateful if some of you fellow moms could offer some concrete suggestions for ways that we can all support this student and the family. Thank you!!
If there are younger siblings at home, maybe some of the students can offer to babysit while the parents run the ill student to doctor appts., etc. Also, gift certificates to restaurants are always welcome b/c the parents (especially mom) is busy again with doctor appts., etc.
Hay i graduated with someone with cancer and the best thing the students can do is to be supportive and include the individual in all activities and don't treat the person any different. Be very encouraging and allow the student to be the normal teenager..your family and the student are in my prayers..god bless
Hi M.!
Just my opinion - This child has to live with this terrible thing enough (at home, etc) I would say treat him as normal as possible. I'm sure if he wants to talk about it he will. Let him know that everyone is aware of the situation, but sometimes cancer patients feel like freaks & to be treated for lack of a better word "different or special" may not be what he wants. Most of the time normalcy is a good thing. Hopefully he'll beat it & have a normal life.
Good Luck!
When my son had his front teeth wired shut after almost loosing all of them in a soccer game, the kids made a big banner with writing things and signing it. He enjoyed reading all they wrote and the class gave him Chicken Soup for the Teen Ager. Of course, don't know if that would be appropriate in this school. But the banner, just made on long white shelf paper was a happy surprise.
N. in Linthicum
