Dr Amandeep Samrai, Consultant Clinical Psychologist in Paediatric Oncology at Nottingham Children’s Hospital, writes on the impact that a childhood cancer diagnosis can have on emotional health and wellbeing. She offers tips on self-care and coping strategies, and explains where to access support.
Kate Beddow uses types of complementary therapies such as Reiki and journalling to help the wellbeing of families affected by childhood cancer. Here, she tells us more.
Caitlin Shorricks’ daughter Theía was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in May 2020. She explains how a special vest she created to protect Theia is now helping other families caring for children with cancer.
Complementary therapies can play a part in supporting children and teenagers through treatment by offering relaxation and calmness. They are typically used alongside a patient’s standard medical treatment and though they do not treat or cure cancer, they can offer relief from symptoms and help promote feelings or emotional or physical wellbeing.
Lauren Murrell was diagnosed with leukaemia aged 23. She tells us how her experiences inspired her into business with her sister to help others get back to themselves through wellness products.
ALLTogether-1 is an international clinical trial looking at improving treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Dr John Moppett, who oversees the trial in the UK, explains more.
Gayle Routledge, mum to Lewis who sadly died of cancer aged two in 2010 and founder of bereavement charity A Child of Mine, tells us how his memory inspires all that she does now.
Dr Catherine Pointer was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2006, aged 14. She tells us how her experiences inspired her to become a cancer researcher, working alongside one of the doctors who treated her.
Professor Hamish Wallace is a Consultant Paediatric Oncologist at the Royal Hospital for Children & Young People in Edinburgh and honorary professor at The University of Edinburgh. He explains what fertility preservation options are available for young cancer patients.
