Pediatric oncology social workers help families move from fear to hope

For the thousands of children and adolescents grappling with cancer, the shock of diagnosis and the complexities of undergoing intensive treatment at such a young age require specialized and highly coordinated care. While doctors and nurses focus a good deal of their attention on treating the disease, it is a different member of the care team who often helps children and their families deal with the psychological, financial, and other practical issues that accompany cancer. This team member is frequently a social worker trained in pediatric cancer care. These specialized social workers help families cope with every part of the cancer journey – from understanding the diagnosis and treatment plan, to navigating financial, social, and emotional issues, to assisting with the child’s transition back to school and regular activities after his or her care is complete. Read more here.