Back to school season has long been a busy time at Friends of Karen. For weeks staff members and volunteers have been tirelessly working to fulfill school supply lists for our Friends of Karen children and their siblings. It is all well worth it when we receive photos of the adorable children smiling ear to ear with the wonderful backpacks
With summer in full swing, parenting an ill child and their well siblings can prove to be a challenge. How do you balance doctors appointments and long hours at the clinic with the yearning to enjoy the pleasures of summer?
There is no totem pole of grief, but if there were, the loss of a child would be at the top. It is the most profound, devastating loss a parent can experience.
With the imminent passing of my dear son Luke upon us, his last question to me was, “Will I feel anything?” I was sure he was referring to the pain he was enduring as a result of being ravaged with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) which had spread throughout his body. I immediately answered, “No sweetheart, you will just fall into a beautiful peaceful sleep.” Only by the grace of God did he hear those words.
Sibling relationships shape who we become, helping us learn to express emotions, develop social skills, and feel a sense of security and belonging. While siblings commonly engage in rivalry and bickering, these interactions also provide valuable life lessons.
Click here to read the full article on Forbes.comSupporting Parents Through A Child’s Serious Illness: What Truly Helps Friends of Karen is sharing its deep expertise in providing emotional support to children and families through a series of posts on the Forbes EQ (Equity Quotient) BrandVoice website.
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