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Together is a new resource for anyone affected by pediatric cancer - patients and their parents, family members, and friends.
Learn MoreKeeping up with friends and classmates provides a bit of normalcy in a world that is anything but normal.
For classmates, using social media may help them to see and understand what is happening with the patient during the treatment phase. They can see changes in the patient’s appearance as it happens and be able to ask questions and discuss these changes openly.
This keeps what is happening less of a mystery for the classmates and allows the flow of accurate information about the illness, treatment process and side effects. This will make the patient’s transition back to the classroom much easier.
Many tools can make that possible. There’s no right or wrong way to do it.
Keeping connected will also help when patients are ready to return to school after treatment. They will know more about what has been going on. The transition can go more smoothly.
When possible, children and teens with pediatric cancer should stay a part of the classroom even when they are away from school. Video chat and social media are some tools that can allow families and patients to keep in touch.
When using FaceTime or other video chat technology, in the hospital or clinic setting, be mindful of any other patients in the area. Make sure your friends/classmates cannot see other patients while they are talking with you.
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Reviewed: February 2023
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