Childhood cancer: Find support for you and your child
CHOC offers a holistic approach to children with cancer and life-threatening blood disorders, and their families.
The word “childhood cancer” is enough to make any parent get shivers down their spine.
There is no question: Childhood cancer is one of the most tragic and challenging diseases that any family will ever face. Children suffering from cancer – and their families – often walk a lonely, and agonising journey.
Despite the best efforts of doctors and nurses, cancer treatment often comes without emotional support.
Unable to participate in most activities other children enjoy, children with cancer – and those undergoing cancer treatments – often fall behind in their education, social and emotional needs. What do parents do?
Risk of infection leads to isolation
The risk of infection can be fatal, so many families become even more isolated. The medical costs can cause extreme pressure on an already tight budget. Medical Aids are complicated, but learning from and leaning on other parents can really ease the pressure of this administrative nightmare.
Children with cancer need lots of love and extra special care
Children with cancer need extra special care and lots and lots of love and support, both from community awareness and from other children and parents who have walked the journey.
Lean on CHOC (Childhood Cancer Association of South Africa)
Children fighting cancer and their families are encouraged to contact CHOC (Childhood Cancer Association of South Africa) for support. CHOC is a non-profit organisation made up of caring, committed, and passionate people who stand up for and support the well-being of children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer or life-threatening blood disorders and their families.
CHOC aims to save lives through early detection and making the journey of those who are affected by childhood cancer, less burdensome through the comprehensive support programmes offered. CHOC has a national office in Johannesburg, and six regional offices offering services and support to the nine provinces of South Africa. The regions are demographically positioned to ensure that every child and family battling cancer in South Africa is reached.
What CHOC offers
- Professional emotional support
- Emotional support
- Accommodation close to treatment centres
- Transport to and from treatment centres
- Support groups (including parent supporting parent groups)
- Choc interactive learning programme and other activities run by volunteers
- Transport assistance to ensure every child and caregiver can return for treatment
- Nutritional support
To contact CHOC, log onto www.choc.org.za, call them on +27 86 111 3500, or e-mail bdu@choc.org.za.
