Breast Cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death from cancer in Canadian women. As we mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are reminded of the importance of continued advocacy, education, and support for those facing this devastating illness. Breast cancer remains a significant challenge, but we stand together to raise awareness, offer guidance, and provide relief to families affected by it.
Talking to Children About Your Diagnosis
When a parent is diagnosed with breast cancer, one of the most difficult tasks is often sharing the news with their children. Nankind understands the complexity of this conversation and provides resources to help parents navigate it. Here are a few common questions children may ask and tips on how to address them:
- “Can I catch it?”
It’s important to reassure children that cancer is not contagious. Explaining this in simple terms can help ease any fears of getting sick. - “Did I cause it?”
Children might internalize guilt and believe they did something to cause the cancer. It’s crucial to affirm that nothing they did caused the illness, and it’s not their fault. - “Can I cure it?”
Kids often want to help and might ask if there’s anything they can do to cure the cancer. Encourage their supportive feelings, but explain that doctors are working hard to treat the illness. - “Who will take care of me?”
One of the biggest fears children have is about stability. Assure them that even though things might change, they will always be cared for, and you are working to ensure their well-being.
For more detailed information, visit Nankind’s Family Resources page to download our Cancer Conversations booklets. These guides provide practical advice on discussing cancer with children and addressing their concerns compassionately and age-appropriately.
How Nankind Can Help
At Nankind, we are committed to supporting families facing breast cancer and any type of cancer, offering in-home, in-office and virtual relief. Here’s how we help:
- Child Life Support: Our Child Life Specialists help children understand and cope with their parent’s diagnosis through play-based activities. These activities encourage children to express their feelings and build emotional resilience.
- In-Home and Virtual Relief: We provide relief in various forms, including free specialized childcare, so parents can focus on their treatment while knowing their children are supported.
- Mom Support Group: Nankind’s Mom Support Group offers a dedicated space for mothers with cancer to connect with others going through similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
Partnering for Good: Supporting Families Through Donations
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month winds down, we want to remind you that there’s still time to make a difference. Our incredible partners—Tonic Blooms, Miraj Hammam Spa, and SEBO—are championing Nankind’s cause, helping us support families affected by cancer.
- Tonic Blooms: For every pink bouquet purchased in October, $10 is donated to Nankind. Brighten your home with beautiful flowers while giving hope to families facing cancer.
- Miraj Hammam Spa: Treat yourself this month with a spa service, and 10% of all retail sales will support Nankind’s essential programs.
- SEBO: When you purchase a pastel pink vacuum, $50 will be donated to Nankind, helping us continue to provide relief to families affected by cancer.
There’s still time to support these champions of our cause. Together, we can bring hope to the families who need it most.
We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our partners—Tonic Blooms, Miraj Hammam Spa, and SEBO. Your commitment to supporting families affected by cancer allows us to bring hope, comfort, and relief to those who need it most.
Hear firsthand how your support is changing lives by watching this year’s impact video.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let’s continue raising awareness, offering support, and standing by families affected by cancer. Whether it’s through supporting our partners, volunteering, or leaving a gift in honour of moms affected by cancer, every act makes a difference. Together, we can change lives, one family at a time.
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