by Julie Steele
It’s not easy to find out that you have cancer. But can you imagine how difficult it is for your child? That’s why Memorial Health Services is offering CLIMB. CLIMB stands for children’s lives includes moments of bravery. Craig Presley, a licensed clinical social worker, at Joe and Virginia Schmissrauter Center for cancer support at Memorial Hospital. CLIMB focuses on building a bridge for children whose parents have been diagnosed with a new cancer.
CLIMB also helps parents communicate with their children at a developmentally appropriate level.
CLIMB is focused toward children ages six to twelve.
The CLIMB program works closely with oncologists in Chattanooga and the center for cancer support offers services for anyone with cancer, not just those being treated with memorial hospital.
What is the first thing parents need to know when they’re diagnosed with cancer is that it’s okay to talk to their children about it, according to Presley.
Secondly, parents need to know that feelings are normal, even if they are difficult feelings.
The CLIMB program lays a foundation for children to communicate with their parents, and a foundation for parents to communicate with their children. And it creates a language that allows children to communicate with parents.
The group program normally includes about six to eight children and sessions are scheduled as needed.
For more information on CLIMB call Memorial Health Services at 423-495-7778.
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Tags: cancer, Catholic Health Initiative, Julie Steele, Memorial Health Care, talking to children about cancer
