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.
Finding out that your child has cancer can feel overwhelming. You may hear a lot of new information at a time when it is difficult to take everything in. You do not need to understand everything straight away. Your child’s healthcare team will explain what they know, what happens next, and who you can contact with questions.
Children and young people with cancer are usually treated at a specialist children’s hospital.
The doctors involved may include a:
Your child will also be supported by nurses and other health professionals. These may include social workers, psychologists, pharmacists, dietitians, physiotherapists and occupational therapists.
Your child may need more tests or surgeries before or after your child receives a diagnosis. These tests or surgeries help the team:
List ViewThe healthcare team treating your child will explain each test or surgery before it happens. Ask them what the test or surgery is for, what your child may feel and how you can help your child prepare.
You may find it useful to:
There is no such thing as a silly question. It is okay to ask the same question again if you do not understand or cannot remember the answer.
Talking to your child about cancer may feel like one of the most difficult conversations you have needed to have with your child.
Many parents worry about saying the wrong thing or frightening their child further. In reality, most children already sense that something has changed. They notice hospital visits, tests and changes in how the adults around them are feeling.Being honest, using simple words and answering questions as they are asked can help your child feel safe and supported.
Resources, such as these books by Angus Olsen, can help explain types of cancer and treatments.
The amount of information you tell your child depends on their age and understanding. Young children usually need simple explanations about what is happening today. Older children and teenagers often want more detailed information and may ask more difficult questions. You do not have to explain everything at once. It is okay to have several conversations over time.
Use words your child understands.
For example, you might say:“The doctors found some sick cells in your body. These cells are called cancer. The medicine is used to help get rid of those sick cells.”
Pause often and let your child ask questions.
If you don’t know an answer, it is okay to say:“I’m not sure yet, but we’ll find out together.”
Children often worry about things they never say aloud. They may wonder:
Reassure your child that:
Children often return to the same questions again and again. This can be expected as your child learns more about the situation.
