Preparing for the Death of a Child

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death, end of life, coping loss

End-of-Life Issues

Death is a subject most people don’t want to discuss and yet death is an inevitable part of life. Use this Web Guide to help prepare for your death or the death of someone you love. The resources here can help you manage your finances or estate in advance, and access funeral and bereavement resources.

General End-of-Life Information

While many Web sites focus on specific areas of death and dying, these Web sites cover most ... read more »

Advance Directives: Planning for the Future

The Web has many resources to help you create advance directives. Sometimes called advance health ... read more »

Estate Planning: Wills, Trusts, Guardians, Insurance and Taxes

If someone you love is dying, these resources can help you take care of him or her with both ... read more »

Planning a Funeral

This section of the guide helps you plan a funeral, whether your own or someone else’s. Get ... read more »

Preparing for the Death of a Child

For many, the death of a child is unimaginable. But for parents who have to face this tragedy, there are some ways to make it easier for all members of the family. The resources below give advice on how to communicate love and support for a dying child and provide opportunities for outreach with other parents who have faced a similar loss.

Dulcinea's Insight

  • Use the forums and blogs recommended in the “Grief Resources” section of this guide as a way to connect with others. Forums and blogs are helpful because you can communicate anonymously at any time of day or night, and be completely open and honest about your grief.
  • The terminal illness of a child affects everyone in the family. If you have other children they may need special attention and care through this difficult time. Take a look at the findingDulcinea Counseling and Therapy Web Guide for information on the different types of therapy available.

Dulcinea's Picks

For end-of-life care for children …
Texas Children’s Cancer Center offers suggestions on how to care for a dying child. Use the links near the top of the page to find information on aspects of physical and psychosocial care, as well as advice on supporting family caregivers.
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Central DuPage Hospital maintains a page of information about caring for the emotional and physical needs of a dying child, as well as meeting the emotional needs of others involved in the child’s life.
go to site »
For special programs …
Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation focuses on entertainment, education and activities as a means of helping terminally ill children and their parents cope with “pain, fear and isolation.” The site encourages users to share their stories and get involved in the Foundation’s programs. Find a Starlight chapter in your area using the “Locations” page.
go to site »
Make-A-Wish Foundation grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses. Visit the “Refer a Child” link to find out who is eligible and to recommend a child for the program.
go to site »
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Grief Resources

Use the Web sites recommended here to overcome the grief and trauma of losing a loved one. ... read more »

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