When can I go home?

We understand that you want to go home and that you miss the comfort, safety and normalcy of your home. 

We also understand that you might feel lonely, bored, uncomfortable or that you are missing your family, friends or pets. We are keeping you in the hospital to keep you safe so that the medicine and treatment could make you better. 

Know that as soon as the medical team feels that you are okay, you will be able to go home.

Below are some helpful approaches when you are missing home, yet the medical team advises to stay in the hospital a little longer.

Tell your parent / caregiver what you miss about being home. Maybe they could bring your favourite toy, blanket, game or something special to comfort you.

Ask your parent / caregiver to help you to keep routines like when to do schoolwork, have your meals, watch TV, play or rest. These routines will help you to cope while in the hospital. 

Enjoy visits or virtual check-in with family and friends. However, when you feel sick you can ask them to rather come or check in when you are feeling better.

If there is a playroom or an outside play area in the hospital you are welcome to go there if the doctor approves. Should volunteers,  play or art therapists offer activities, such as play, arts and crafts, music or any other interactive activity, it would be good if you can take part in it – even if it might feel uncomfortable at first. It will get better, just keep on going and ask for physical assistance if you need it. 

This article has been written based on the experience of childhood cancer advocates, and drawing on inspiration from the following sources:

St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. (n.d.). How Patients React to Hospital Care. 

Young lives vs Cancer. CLIC Sargent Cancer Care for Children. Staying in hospital with your child – what you’ll need.