The Secret C

by Julie Stokes

Published 11 September 2000
This illustrated guide for children provides a sensitive introduction for a child when a parent, sibling or a person close to them is diagnosed with cancer. Cancer in the family is hard for everyone, especially when children are involved. Children need to understand what is happening and it can be hard for adults to explain when they themselves are trying to come to terms with the implications of the diagnosis. Children often want information but sense that they need to protect their parents from the questions they want to ask. Explaining what cancer is in plain language, this book looks at diagnosis, treatment and prognosis from the viewpoint of the child. Including a selection of children's own testimonies that relate to the text, it aims to help explain the sometimes adult feelings and actions that children have to deal with.