For Patients and Families

The Talking About Side Effects of Cancer Treatments pocket guide emphasizes the importance of discussing side effects with your doctor and provides some hints that will make it easier. 

Cancer and Marriage: For Couples. When a patient is diagnosed with cancer, both husband and wife may feel intense emotions, but often from diverse perspectives. The video shows how these differences can bring conflict or closeness depending on how they are handled.

Caring for the Patient: The Caregiver's Perspective. Families and loved ones discuss their experiences in supporting their loved one after a cancer diagnosis, as well as providing for their own well-being.

Caregivers: Facing the Challenge Together. The booklet was written for family members and other caregivers of cancer patients, addressing the various aspects of caregiver distress, encouragement and empowerment. 

Caregivers: I've Got Feelings, Too! This group is offered at different times during the year and addresses caregiver needs, expectations, strengths and management of stress associated with the caregiver role. Contact Katherine Ramsey for more information.

The Department of Social Work created a comprehensive program for parents, children and teens to help them learn healthy ways to discuss and cope with a cancer diagnosis in the family. Kids Inquire, We Inform (KIWI) has three components:

• Kid Kits are backpacks containing information and tools for children and parents to assist in learning about cancer and healthy ways to cope.
• Children's Lives Include Moments of Bravery (CLIMB) is a support group for children and teens coping with a parent's cancer. 
• Kid to Kid: Learning to Cope When Your Parent Has Cancer is a video for children which explains cancer, treatments, and common questions kids may have when a parent has cancer.

For more information about KIWI, contact your social work counselor or the Department of Social Work at 713-792-6195.