How Can I Talk to My Children About My Mesothelioma Diagnosis?

There are times in our lives when we inevitably receive tragic news. It can not only be stressful for yourself, but also for your family and those close to you. A cancer diagnosis can upend your life, particularly if you were diagnosed with mesothelioma­­, the aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Due to mesothelioma slowly developing over several years or decades after initial exposure, those diagnosed may be parents of adolescent children or teenagers, and children of that age often times struggle to understand when their loved ones are very sick. The following suggestions can help you and your family cope with the unfortunate diagnosis of mesothelioma:

• Communication and honesty: Being honest with your child is always recommended, regardless of the situation. It may be your parental instinct to protect your child from devastating news by sugarcoating the situation or even lying about its existence. With the modern-day ability of discovering and learning information instantly, your child can easily look up what mesothelioma is and see how deadly it can be, so lying to your children would only make matters worse. It is best to be up front with them and help them deal with the news.
• Help them with their emotions: An adolescent or teenage child is developing physically and emotionally. When confronted with a difficult situation, they may need time to sort their emotions. They may become distant, shutdown, or perhaps even act out. It is your duty to be patient with their emotions and understand that a child is dealing with the possibility of losing their parent.
• Let them help: Mesothelioma requires different types of treatment and medications, some of which will leave you fatigued and unable to fulfill work or household responsibilities. Inform your children of this change and ask them to help out with chores around the house, especially if your spouse has to help as well. Having them help with daily chores will bring the family closer together and will instill a level of maturity they did not have before. Children do not respond well to growing up faster than they are supposed to. This could stunt their emotional growth and may put stress on their already worried minds.

Philadelphia Mesothelioma Attorneys at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler Help Families of Mesothelioma Patients

A diagnosis of mesothelioma can be devastating for all involved. If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma or were exposed to asbestos, contact the Philadelphia mesothelioma attorneys at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you and your family receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 215-569-4000 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including Delaware County, Chester County, and Philadelphia County.