Kate and Daniel’s son, Harry, was diagnosed with cancer on the same day that his younger brother, Ian, was born. Overnight, their family experienced a flurry of emotions.
Kate was suddenly faced with questions no parent is prepared for: How do you explain cancer to a child? How do you help siblings feel safe, seen and supported when everything has changed?
For their family, finding community made all the difference. They attended Family Camp at the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS)'s Camp Goodtimes, where cancer didn’t define the experience – connection did. Harry’s older brother, Ethan, also attended the camp and spent a whole week with his brother.
Here are just a few ways CCS can help
1. Guidance for tough conversations
When someone close to your child is affected by cancer, finding the right words can be hard. CCS has practical, compassionate information to help parents and caregivers have honest and age‑appropriate conversations. Read our advice.
2. Information and programs for children, youth and families
From peer support to recreational programs, CCS provides year‑round support to help families cope with a cancer diagnosis, connect and feel less alone. Explore CCS’s child, youth and young adult supports.
3. Moments that feel like a break from cancer
At Camp Goodtimes's Family Camp, families like Kate's find understanding, laughter and lasting memories.
No one should have to face cancer alone
If you or someone you love is facing cancer and have questions or are looking for support, call our Cancer Information Helpline at 1-888-939-3333 to speak to someone you can trust for reliable information. You can call as often as you like and talk for as long as you need.
Help create a future without cancer
With support from readers like you, we can continue to make a meaningful impact for people affected by cancer.
We are determined to increase survival, stop cancer before it starts, and improve lives. But we can’t do it without you.
If everyone reading this gave just $5, we could achieve our goal this month to fund the most promising research, compassionate support and transformative advocacy. Please give today because every contribution counts. Thank you.