Family reflections: psychosocial care in childhood cancer survivorship from a long-term survivor and parent

As every cancer survivor and caregiver knows, the end of treatment does not mark the end of the need for support from the care team. We believe that it would benefit every individual affected by cancer if some, or all treatment providers communicated an awareness that survivorship is a continuation of the cancer journey, one that presents unique psychological, emotional, and social difficulties. Caregivers and patients alike may feel exhausted and uncertain about the immediate and long-term future, yet sense the societal pressure to be relieved and “move on.” This can be an internal barrier to seeking help with the many challenges of survivorship.