Programs for Families of Chronically Ill

Hello!

I'm a nursing student beginning my final year of school (hooray!), and thinking about what I want to do in the future. Through clinicals and personal experience, I have noticed that the families of chronically ill patients (particularly children whose parents are sick, or children whose siblings are sick) are often sorely neglected. I would love to work with this population. Does anyone know of any organizations that are involved in this? Any suggestions for further contacts/research?

Thanks!

NO, I don't but I am also looking to do the same thing and going back to school to help educated families about the chronically ill and form support groups for others going through similar things. As a child of a parent who was ill for years it is sooo hard on you mentally as you feel alone and nobody is listening or wanna help you. I remember being 15 and a doctor blamed us kids for not getting her to the hospital sooner . I wish something was offered to me back then. Every since my mom's passed away last year I want to offer my help to others.

As a mother of a chronically ill child and a "typical child" I think if you can find a niche for this it would be awesome!!! This is something I actually think about all the time. My youngest has been in & out of doctors and labs and we have had to leave her for long periods of time while caring for our other child. You may wantto consider contacting Advocate Group and even Child Life Specialists in your area hospitals they may have information.