Like many spouses, Haein Kim-Blasdale struggled with her husband’s cancer diagnosis. Haein had the extra burden of keeping the diagnosis from their 9 year old son Brian because they hoped his condition might improve.

“That was very difficult for me knowing it wasn’t going to be the best for Brian,” said Haein.

Haein got support for other organizations but the support she received from Gilda’s Toronto was the most useful and impactful. She used Careful Steps: Navigating cancer with children, a virtual one-on-one service that offers guidance to parents and guardians who are concerned about the impact their cancer diagnosis and treatment may have on their children.

“Tory [Hagerman, Gilda’s Toronto Family Support and Outreach Manager] emphasized that the most important thing was be honest with Brian. She helped me to approach the conversation with Brian, to make it easier for me. She gave me different scenarios that wouldn’t scare Brian and would encourage me to talk to him at a time when it was very difficult to do that.”

Haein appreciated the attention that Gilda’s Toronto was able to give her son. “Tory carefully picked out material for Brian to start decorating the memory box for my husband.”

Haein also participated in the Gilda’s Toronto bereavement support group and attended family nights with her son.

“The events were so welcoming. We attended several. It was great to be in a room with other kids that had such a traumatic loss. It was a comfort to Brian and helped him understand that he wasn’t alone.”

Haein appreciated the continuous support she received from Gilda’s Toronto. “Gilda’s Toronto was there for me before he died and after he died. There was continuity.”