Every year, 600 children across Australia are diagnosed with a type of childhood cancer. According to the Children’s Cancer Institute in Australia, cancer is the leading cause of death in children within Australia.

For any parent, your child’s well-being, health and happiness are the most important. As a parent, it is your responsibility to provide the best care possible, even at a cost.

Today in Australia, the survival rates are approximately 75 per cent across all types of childhood cancer, with cancers such as acute myeloid leukaemia have a much lower survival rate. The chances of survival have grown enormously over the decades with advances in knowledge and treatment.

How Can I Help My Child With Cancer?

Sometimes, during the diagnosis, treatment and recovery of a child having cancer, parents can end up feeling frustrated, tired, stress and helpless. It is an emotional experience for not only the child but for the parent as well. Fortunately, there are a number of support services that can help Australian families through this period and hopefully ease the financial burden experienced.

Australian parents who are concerned of their child’s well-being have a number of charities and Australian organisations that can assist throughout the process of diagnosis, treatment and recovery. If you are struggling financially, or require emotional support during this time, you can speak to you hospital social worker who can provide you a referral to the right organisation or service.

As survivors of childhood cancer are at a substantial risk of developing at least one medical disability during their lifetime as a direct result of their therapy, organ toxicity, growth and hormonal deficiencies, infertility and secondary cancers, you may still require assistance financially after treatment of cancer.

Fundraising can be another option for parents who want to take an active role and raise funds to cover costs that can assist with their child’s health and well-being. This provides you with more control on how the funds will be used, where your child receives treatment and care, and to help cover the medical bills and expenses that are due.