Get involved and help Queenslanders living with cancer by volunteering. Volunteers are the heart of our organisation. Join us to make a greater impact and connect with like-minded people.
Every contribution helps support those living with cancer. Whether a one-off donation or monthly gift, your support ensures funding stability for long-term goals and future generations.
Leave a legacy by including a gift in your Will, starting a tribute page for a loved one, or funding a research grant for early-career cancer researchers driving clinical innovations.
Organise a fundraising event in your community, either as a team or an individual. You can join one of our existing fundraising events or you might like to come up with your own way.
When organisations work together, we can have a greater impact for every Queenslander going through cancer and help amplify our message for all Australians.
However you get involved, you’re making a direct impact on the lives of Queenslanders affected by cancer. See the results of what we’ve all achieved.
Every child reacts differently to a cancer diagnosis and treatment. At different times your child may feel frightened, angry, sad, confused or frustrated. These feelings are an expected response to a difficult situation and may change from day to day. Children often look to the adults around them for reassurance. Feeling supported, loved and included can help them cope with the challenges of treatment. You can support your child by:
Sometimes children need extra support from a psychologist, social worker or another member of the healthcare team. Let your treating team know if your child’s worries or low mood persist or begin to affect their daily life.
Teenagers often understand much more about cancer and its treatment than younger children, but they may not always want to talk about how they are feeling. At the same time, they are trying to develop independence, maintain friendships and manage school, making treatment particularly challenging.Your teenager may want more information about their treatment and may appreciate being involved in decisions whenever appropriate.
You can help by:
If your teenager seems persistently withdrawn, overwhelmed or distressed, speak with your healthcare team about additional support.
Blood tests, scans and medical procedures can be stressful for children and families. Feeling nervous or frightened is common, especially before unfamiliar procedures. Your healthcare team will work with you to reduce pain, fear and discomfort. Parents also play an important role in helping children feel safe and supported. Some ways you can help include:
Over time, many children develop their own coping strategies and become more confident with procedures.
A child’s cancer diagnosis affects the whole family. Brothers and sisters may feel worried, confused, left out, jealous or guilty. They may also miss spending time with their parents while treatment is taking place. Although every child responds differently, staying connected and including siblings wherever possible can help them adjust. You can support siblings by:
If you are concerned about how a sibling is coping, speak with your healthcare team about available support services.
Caring for a child with cancer can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Many parents describe feeling frightened, overwhelmed, angry, sad or uncertain at different times during treatment. These feelings are common. Looking after yourself is not selfish; it helps you continue caring for your child and family. You may find it helpful to:
Remember, you do not have to manage everything on your own Cancer Council Queensland has a dedicated team who can listen, support and provide you with the information you need – call us on 13 11 20. There are many other organisations and professionals who can support you throughout your child’s treatment. These include:
Most children experience a range of emotions during cancer treatment and gradually find ways to cope. However, there may be times when they need additional support. Consider speaking with your child’s healthcare team if your child:
Early support from a psychologist, social worker or other member of your child’s healthcare team can help your family develop strategies to manage these challenges. Asking for help is a positive step and an important part of helping care for your child’s wellbeing.
Cancer treatment becomes part of everyday life for a while, but it doesn’t have to define it. Although routines may change, many families find that keeping familiar activities and staying connected with school, friends and loved ones helps children feel more secure. This section offers practical ideas to help your family navigate day-to-day life during treatment while maintaining as much normality as possible. Cancer treatment will change many parts of your family’s life, but keeping some familiar routines can help children feel safe and provide a sense of normality. Some days your child may feel well enough to play, learn or spend time with family and friends. On other days they may need extra rest. Try to be flexible and let your child’s energy guide what they do. You can help by:
Everyday family moments can make a big difference during treatment.
Many children continue learning during treatment, although how they attend daycare or school may change depending on how they are feeling and their treatment plan. Staying connected with daycare or school helps children maintain friendships, continue learning and feel part of everyday life. You can support your child by:
Every child’s situation is different, so talk with your child’s healthcare team and daycare or school about the approach that best suits your child.
Spending time with family and friends remains important during treatment, even if it looks different for a while. Your child may not always feel well enough for visits, but there are many ways to help them stay connected. Some ideas include:
Staying connected can help reduce feelings of isolation and remind your child they are still part of their usual world.
