I'm Still Me activity book
When children undergo cancer treatment, they appear to mature very rapidly. They quickly learn an adult medical vocabulary and rapidly become accustomed to a world that includes many needle sticks, hair loss and nausea.
In contrast to appearances, many children
actually experience
an emotional lapse.
They revert to past
behaviors and rely
more heavily on their
parents. Each child
experiencing cancer
has questions that
need to be answered
in a manner that they
can comprehend.
They also need to be
allowed to work
through problems at
their own pace.
It can be difficult for a child to find the words to broach their questions, as it can also be uncomfortable for a parent to initiate a conversation.
Gabe’s My Heart has worked with child life specialists, social workers and psychologists to create a workbook that is both thought provoking and educational. The book is designed to deal with each topic in several different ways and appeal to children of all ages.
In this way, we can ensure that children are allowed to deal with their concerns at the emotional age they feel comfortable. They come to learn that they are not alone in their problems, and that they are still the same kid they were before the cancer diagnosis.
There are also hints and tips for parents to assist in opening a dialogue with the child in treatment and their siblings.
We all have the right to feel good about who we are. Gabe’s My Heart is working hard to ensure that kids with cancer maintain strong self worth, and parents feel better equipped to initiate a discussion about cancer treatment.