Becoming a parent is among the best feelings you will ever experience in life. You want to do your best to give your little ones a decent and happy life, but life can be harsh. Being diagnosed with cancer before your child can walk can be emotionally and physically draining. How do you cope with a cancer diagnosis while caring for your kids and yourself? Read on for five simple tips to excel at parenting while battling cancer.
1. Find out if you are eligible for compensation
If your cancer is related to workplace conditions or could be caused by a negligent party, you may be eligible for monetary compensation from the liable party's insurer. For example, if you have mesothelioma, there is a 60% to 80% chance your condition was caused by asbestos exposure. A dedicated mesothelioma law firm such as Bergman Legal can help you determine liability, collect evidence, file a claim or lawsuit, and receive your rightful compensation. Note that parenthood is a factor when calculating a claim's value in mesothelioma cases, so it is good to give your lawyer a clear picture of your parenting responsibilities when filing your claim.
2. Let your child in on your condition
Many parents believe keeping their children in the dark about their health struggles is an excellent way to protect them. Unfortunately delaying the inevitable won't be of much benefit. Talking to your child about your condition will help them brace up for the worst and, for the older children, make them more responsible.
3. Stick to the schedules
A sudden change of schedule might give signals that you are going through a rough patch, especially to teens and older children. If you still have the physical ability to go about house chores and other tasks, stick to the schedule. Older kids might be interested in helping, but you don't want to foist your struggles on their mental health and social life.
4. Get a maid
Even if your children understand what you are going through, it is your responsibility to ensure your condition doesn't take a toll on their lives. You can start by hiring a maid to fill the void you leave when attending doctor appointments. Set up a task schedule for them, and ensure your children don't see much of a change through the course of your treatment.
5. Try to be cheerful
When you are your kids' support system and source of happiness, they most likely look up to you to set the mood in your home. Try not to let them read your emotions, regardless of the pain and discomfort you are going through. If you are in a bad situation, it would be best to get some time alone in your bedroom or somewhere in the backyard to pull yourself together. In the meantime, your partner can keep your children company and assure them that you are doing fine.
Endnote
Follow these tips to find the perfect balance between parenting and battling cancer. Whatever you do, ensure neither happens at the expense of the other.
