Bright Spot: Supporting Kids through a Parent’s Diagnosis

Bright Spot: Supporting Kids through a Parent’s Diagnosis

Register here

with Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois

Wednesday, December 3, 2025
10 am PT / 11 am MT / 12 pm CT / 1 pm ET

While a cancer diagnosis may stop some people in their tracks, parents often feel like they have too much to juggle to slow down. They are parents first, and work their magic to fit-in chemo, radiation, surgery and recovery among their children’s nap times, school drop-offs, and after school activities. They often worry more about their kids than themselves: What exactly do their kids know about cancer and treatment? How are they managing big feelings? How are they coping with changes in routine and extended parent absence due to treatment?

This workshop will explore the key components of what kids and teens need when a parent has cancer. It will address how to talk with children of all ages, effective coping techniques to help them process their big questions and feelings, and valuable resources to help them feel supported.

Presenter: Carissa Hodgson, LCSW, OSW-C, Director of Programs at Bright Spot Network