Social Work
As part of the treatment team, social work staff can help support the psychological, social, emotional and practical needs of patients and their families. The Hematology/Oncology social worker assesses the family’s needs and develops a plan to support them in their journey and day-to-day life.
The social workers may assist patient families with:
- Orienting to hospital/clinic routines
- Applying for government benefits
- Managing financial strains/applying for assistance
- Talking with children about their illness
- Helping siblings and other family members adjust
- Securing housing, food, and transportation during treatment
- Finding local and national support resources
- Connecting with wish-granting organizations
For more information, please ask your social worker.
Children's Cancer Support Program
The Children's Cancer Support Program (CCSP) at Brenner Children's Hospital provides support to Pediatric Oncology Patients and their families during treatment and follow-up periods. Support is available through counseling services, informational programs, networking opportunities, assistance with school issues, social events, and various other activities and services.
Counseling Services
- Counseling for coping with diagnosis, post-treatment, and other related concerns
- Individual, marital, and family counseling is available for patients, siblings, parents and caregivers, both during and following treatment
- Parenting consultations for behavior problems and school issues
All counseling services are provided free of charge, through donations by groups and individuals.
Groups
Parent Support Meetings - Connect with other parents for mutual support and education, available according to interest
Parent to Parent Linking - This program links parents and children (newly diagnosed) together with other parents who have been through treatment with their kids, in order to provide additional support and perspective.
Teen to Teen Linking - This program gives newly diagnosed teens a chance to talk with other teenagers who have experienced cancer and its treatment.
Additional Services & Support
Arts for Life - a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting pediatric patients and families through arts education and engagement.
Referral Information - the support program counselor can help with referral sources for counseling and psychological services in Forsyth and surrounding counties.
School Visitation Program - The Pediatric Oncology support staff offer school visits to all school-age children who are interested. They will go to your child's school, upon request, to discuss with teachers and peers the nature of the illness.
Homebound School, 504 Plans and Other Health Impaired (OHI) Certification - The support program team can assist parents in initiating school services.
Wigs and Hats - Information about wigs and hats are available upon request
Spring Picnic - Annual social gathering for pediatric oncology families and staff
Christmas and Holiday Party - Annual social event for pediatric oncology families and staff
E-mail List - Parents can be on the email list and obtain notices of events, special programs and dialogue with the support program staff.
For more information about any of the above, contact Support Program Director Jeff Ungetheim at 336-713-5984, or e-mail at jungethe@wakehealth.edu.
