“Back to school” is a stressful time for many kids, but especially those facing a serious illness or new diagnosis. Not only are they battling first day jitters, they’re also responsible for maintaining treatment schedules, making time for doctor appointments, and explaining their condition to friends, teachers, and school administrators.
How can parents and educators support children navigating this difficult time?
Board certified physician Dr. Maitland DeLand specializes in pediatric oncology, and knows firsthand that when a child is diagnosed with an illness, they are thrust into an adult world of blood tests, x-rays, and injections.
“I’m a doctor but I’m also a single mother of two,” Dr. DeLand explains. “My own children faced epilepsy, diabetes, and asthma. I also know from a parent’s perspective what it’s like watching your children face these situations.”
In her book, Dr. DeLand discusses:
- How parents can help kids who are sick feel comfortable returning to school
- Explaining a child’s diagnosis to teachers, school officials, and classmates
- Maintaining a sense of playfulness with children facing serious illness
- Ensuring a child’s medical needs are met during school hours
- Her experiences helping her own children deal with epilepsy and diabetes
In The Great Katie Kate series, Dr. DeLand calls on both her professional and personal experience to help children facing cancer, diabetes, and asthma understand their diagnosis and treatments. The three-book series features Katie Kate, a young superhero who takes readers step-by-step through the treatment process, serving as a close friend and personal advocate.
M. Maitland DeLand, M.D. is a radiation oncologist, specializing in the treatment of cancer in women and children. She is a leader in her field and the founder and former owner of OncoLogics, Inc., a group of clinical cancer practices throughout Louisiana. Dr. DeLand serves as chairman of the Health Education Authority of Louisiana and a member of the Breastcancer.org Professional Advisory Board. She has dedicated her career to helping her patients and their families lead balanced and rewarding lives. For more information, visit: www.DeLandBooks.com.
Leave a Reply