Families First
A parent's cancer diagnosis and treatment impacts the whole family. During this time, children's needs and reactions may be overlooked or misunderstood. Caregivers can help their children cope effectively with education and guidance.
Families First is a special program at Moffitt Cancer Center that seeks to restore and maintain the quality of life for families facing a cancer diagnosis. This is accomplished through the delivery of a variety of services that help families cope with the changes that occur when a parent, step-parent, co-parent, or guardian of minor-age children has cancer.
Families First seeks to educate, prepare and support families to cope successfully in the face of serious illness. The program promotes effective communication and informed decision-making.
To speak with someone about this program, please call the social work department at 813-745-8407.
What is Families First?
- Provides caregivers with guidance in learning how to talk with their children about cancer and the changes that occur
- Promotes caregivers' understanding of childhood growth and development
- Creates opportunities for healthy expression and validation of feelings
- Offers peer support and lasting connections for parents and children
- Encourages family communication and fun at weekend programs
- Enables parents to know when to seek additional help and support
What Families First Offers
- Connect with an oncology social worker to discuss family support and coping
- TLC backpacks for caregivers and children with age-appropriate items for comfort, education, stress reduction and creative expression
- Educational and peer-support programs for parents and children
- Families can visit Moffitt’s Patient Library and Welcome Center, where books for caregivers and children are available to check out
