My niece is four and has just been diagnosed with soft cell sarcoma. I have two questions I'm seeking advice for. She has a seven year old brother, and my kids are also seven and four. My brother and his wife are very open and honest about it all, and also very positive, hoping for the best while being clear that there is a chance she won't get better.
I'm firstly wondering where there are any good books I can buy to help the kids process or understand their feelings about all this. If there is anything specific for siblings I'd welcome that too. English language is fine.
Secondly she is already experiencing significant hair loss. I'm wondering if anyone can recommended good hats or easy tie or pre-tied headscarves for small kids. She will need lightweight for indoors and warm for outdoors (it is usually -10 where they live in winter, Norway). Someone also mentioned to me that the scalp can become sensitive. She recommended coconut oil. Can anyone vouch for this or suggest something else?
I appreciate any help or advice anyone can offer. I'd really like to send over a care package for both my niece and nephew, as well as getting some books for my own kids. Thank you.
Hi and welcome to the Macmillan Online Community although sorry that you needed to find us and especially sorry to hear about your nieces diagnosis, cancer has no boundaries.
A cancer diagnosis in n the family brings many questions, confusion and lots of stress but talking with other people who are walking the same type of journey will help you navigate this rollercoaster.
The Community is organised into dedicated support groups so can I recommend you join our supportive Soft tissue sarcomas group, this will be a good place to connect with others navigating the support of a family member on the same type of cancer journey.
To join a group just click on the link above then choose 'click to join' or 'join' (depending on the device you're using) on the page that opens. You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘New Thread’ or hit the box with the X on the top right (phones), you could just copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also join in with existing ‘Discussions’ by clicking on 'reply'.
We have info pages about Talking to Family & Friends about Cancer and Talking to Children and Teenagers about Cancer
Talking with others caring for family and friends will help a lot so do check out our Family and friends group as you will connect with others walking the same journey supporting family and friends through their cancer journey.
It’s always good to talk and the Macmillan Support Services provides lots of information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
Most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week and it's free to call on 0808 808 00 00 have a look by Clicking here to see what is available and we also have our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers can be found on our Online Information and Support Section.
((hugs))
