Siblings: Helping them cope with childhood cancer

children

(BPT) – When a child is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family is affected by the experience, especially the child’s siblings. Young children experience their brother or sister’s cancer while they are still learning to make sense of the world. Often this leaves them feeling scared, angry, anxious or sad. According to Meredith Barnhart, a…

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A challenge to older Americans: Take the flu seriously

two women smiling

(BPT) – Alice Vaught skipped her flu shot one season. That was the year she got the flu. “I felt like I was dying. Within a couple hours I was unable to move. It came on so quickly, and I wasn’t aware of how severe it was.” Unfortunately, the flu often strikes quickly and without…

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Simple ways to help caregivers focus on their own wellbeing

husband and wife

(BPT) – Caring for a loved one with a chronic illness is something millions of Americans do every day. Whether it is a parent, spouse, extended family member or friend, the stress of caring for another adult can take a toll. “I have to do absolutely everything for her,” explains Anthony Cowels, whose 71-year-old wife,…

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How physical therapy can help you manage pain

(BPT) – Movement is crucial to a person’s health, quality of life and independence. For some people, pain makes movement a challenge. Pain is one of the most common reasons people seek health care. A physical therapist can help people move better and safely manage their pain. Who are physical therapists? PTs are movement experts…

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