Childhood Cancer

Childhood Cancer

After treatment

State-of-the-art treatment for childhood cancer has resulted in greater numbers of long-term survivors, but not without cost. Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and stem cell transplant can cause changes in learning abilities, motor skills, vision, hearing, and social skills (see Chapter 16, Common Side Effects of Treatment). Parents and educators need to remain vigilant for these issues and intervene as early as possible. Teachers and other school personnel may not be aware of how long-term effects can influence learning potential and school performance. The hospital school liaison can provide materials to school personnel to help them understand these issues and/or attend school meetings to provide additional information.

Many of the same services and accommodations that assist students with school reentry also help students with learning problems that are related to their diagnosis and treatment. Regardless of where your child is on the treatment continuum, there are federal laws that will assist you in the process of obtaining appropriate educational services for your child.