Facing the death of a child is likely the hardest thing a parent ever has to do. People who have lost a child have stronger grief reactions with more anger, guilt, physical symptoms, greater depression, and a loss of meaning and purpose in life. A loss is tragic at any age, but the sense of unfairness of a life unfulfilled magnifies the anger and rage felt by parents.

A longer and slower bereavement and recovery should be expected when someone loses a child. The grief may get worse with time, as the parents see others going through the milestones they expected to pass with their children. Bereaved parents may especially be helped by a grief support group, which may be available in the local community. You can ask your child's cancer care team for referral to counseling or local groups. You can also contact Compassionate Friends, a nationwide self-help organization offering support to families who have experienced the death of a child, of any age, from any cause. It publishes a newsletter and other materials on parent and sibling bereavement, and makes referrals to nearly 600 local chapters (see "Additional resources" ). Online support groups, such as those at GriefNet (in the "Additional resources" section) can be another way to connect with others.

Last Medical Review: 01/17/2009
Last Revised: 01/17/2009