Here are some questions children who have cancer ask us. You may have more questions of your own. Be sure to ask your doctor or nurse about whatever you want to know.
I have a friend who had cancer. Will I receive the same treatments my friend had?
There are many different kinds of cancer and each one has its own treatment. Your doctor will decide which is the most effective way to attack the cancer you have.
Even though you may be feeling fine, it's possible that there may be some cancer cells that are hiding. Your doctor may want you take medicine that can find and destroy the cancer cells to stop them from coming back.
If I do stay in the hospital will I be all by myself?
No. One of your parents may stay with you in your room. You will also share the room with another patient; you may find that he or she becomes a good friend.
What does it mean if I am going to receive my treatment as an outpatient?
Being an outpatient means that you come to the Pediatric Day Hospital for your treatment, but you stay with a family member overnight away from the hospital.
My family doesn't live in New York City. Where can we stay?
There are several different locations where you and your family can stay. Many of our young patients stay at the Ronald McDonald House, which is close to the hospital.
Why do people who visit kids in the hospital wear masks, gloves, and hospital gowns?
This is because we don't want patients to "catch" anything from their visitors. Even when someone has cancer, he or she can still get a cold or the flu. The masks, gloves, and gowns will help protect you from your visitors' germs.
Cancer is a serious disease, but the treatments you will have should help get rid of the cancer. Your doctors, nurses, and family will try their best to make you better.
