Why it's necessary to destigmatise palliative care for children

As a society, we tend to not connect palliative care with children. — 123rf.com

WHAT happens to parents when their child is diagnosed with a life-threatening terminal illness or medical complications? They go through a lot of medical procedures, sleepless nights, work disruptions, lifestyle readjustments and financial difficulties, all of which contribute to significant emotional distress.

While medical professionals deal with the physical health issue at hand, who addresses the psychological coping mechanisms of the child with illness, parents and other family members?