Traveling for Your Child’s Cancer Treatment
Practical Tips to Make the Journey Easier
Receiving a diagnosis of cancer can stir up a lot of questions about what’s next for your child. If you live in a smaller or more rural community, you may need to explore options for treatment that may not be available in your area. Although it may feel daunting to travel with a child with cancer, there are things that you can do to prepare for travel and lower your and your child’s stress levels. Planning is key and can empower you to take control of the situation.
Is it safe to travel?
Consult with your pediatric oncologist to ensure your child is safe to travel. Depending on the type of travel, a letter clearing your child for travel may be necessary. Learn if flying has associated risks compared to driving or taking the train. Additional precautions may be required depending on the type of cancer and means of travel.
Arrange to have copies of any medical records, scans, or other diagnostic tests forwarded to the facility you are traveling to or bring them with you. If possible, save electronic medical records on a small external thumb drive. Bring insurance cards and an envelope to hold receipts for expenses that may be reimbursable from your insurance provider.
How will we get there?
Depending on the mode of transportation—air, bus, train, RV, or car—and the distance traveled, consider the duration of the trip and what would be most appropriate for your child, given their physical, mental, and emotional needs.
Even though flying may be the most convenient, different airlines may have specific flight requirements. It’s always a good idea to give yourself time and plan in case you need to obtain additional documentation from the pediatric oncologist or other members of the medical team.
Consider purchasing travel insurance. Airlines, Experida, and Travelocity offer it. If you need to make a change or cancel the flight altogether, you may be able to get reimbursed or apply the ticket to another flight. Cost, coverage, and documentation vary, so read the terms and conditions carefully.
If oxygen is necessary for a flight, get the specific equipment recommendations and documentation requirements. When making reservations for commercial flights, you may also be able to arrange for assistance at the airport, such as a wheelchair or priority boarding.
Many non-profits offer transportation assistance services, including gas cards, tolls, parking vouchers, air travel, and rail tickets. Sassy Carmen’s Transportation Assistance program provides help with gas and paying tolls. Alternative transportation, such as Uber, may also be considered for the program.
Bring your child’s favorite comfort items, like a blanket or toy, and healthy, nutritious snacks. Regardless of the means of transportation, if the trip is long, ensure your child stretches and moves their legs. Cancer patients with PICC lines or ports may be at risk of developing blood clots.
Practice good hygiene by frequent hand washing and use wipes to sanitize surfaces.
Where will we stay?
Check with the cancer treatment center to determine if they offer low-cost, short-term housing or partner with hotels for lower or long-term rates. Look for lodging close to the treatment facility.
Facilities may also have vans to provide transportation to and from the facility.
The American Cancer Society offers free housing through its Hope Lodge program in over 30 cities. The Ronald McDonald House is another option for families traveling for cancer treatment. However, somebody must refer families, so check with a pediatric oncology social worker to learn about the best options for your trip. Some lodging or transportation programs require an application and documentation from a medical professional, so you’ll need to plan.
What about medications?
Keep prescriptions in their original bottles or containers and prescribing documentation in your carry-on luggage. Carry all medication, PICC line, or port supplies with you, and bring extras in case of delays. Ask your pediatric oncologist if medication is needed to address potential nausea or vomiting from motion sickness.
The TSA allows liquid medications to exceed the 3.4-ounce limit, but you must notify the officer if you have medically necessary liquids before being screened. Contact the TSA Helpline (855-787-2227) at least 72 hours before departure to discuss specific medical needs. Once at your destination, identify nearby pharmacies and urgent care centers in case of an emergency.
How can I support my child?
Being away from home, your child’s usual routine, and the comforts of home and other family members can be challenging.
Contact the pediatric oncology Child Life Specialist. They can offer support for your child and your family, explain medical terms and treatments, and assist with managing fear and anxiety, among other services.
Help your child adjust to their temporary surroundings by having an age-appropriate conversation about what to expect during travel and at the treatment facility. Topics should include lodging, activities, and scheduled tests and treatments. Sticking to routines where possible can provide a sense of normalcy and comfort.
Bring some of their favorite items, such as a blanket, plushie, age-appropriate games, puzzles, books, and electronics. These can occupy their time and be a welcome distraction.
When can we go home?
Preparing to go home will depend on various factors, including the type of treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. After chemotherapy, bloodwork, such as a lower white count, may indicate a higher risk of infection, and treatment side effects could be more challenging. Surgical treatment will require some time for recovery, so plan travel accordingly, allowing for extra time. Take extra care to avoid people who may be sick, wear a mask, and wash hands frequently.
Final Thoughts
While traveling for cancer treatment may feel overwhelming, remember you are not alone. Many people, organizations, and resources are available to help. Lean on support groups or talk to other families on this journey. By planning carefully, you can make the trip smoother and less stressful and focus on caring for your child. But don’t forget to take care of yourself too. Take things one day at a time. You’ve got this.
References
MD Anderson. (2023, August 11). Traveling with cancer: 7 questions to ask your doctor. https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/traveling-with-cancer–7-questions-to-ask-your-doctor.h00-159621012.html#:~:text=%E2%80%9CA%20picture%20is%20worth%20a,team%20while%20you’re%20away
University of Rochester Medical Center. (2015, December 7). Tips for Traveling During Cancer Treatment. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/publications/health-matters/traveling-with-cancer-tips-for-taking-a-trip-durin
Transportation Security Administration. (n.d.). Can you pack your meds in a pill case and more questions answered. https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/can-you-pack-your-meds-pill-case-and-more-questions-answered
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. (2016, July 26). 5 Ways to Make Travel Easier When Your Child Has Cancer. https://www.mskcc.org/news/5-ways-make-travel-easier-when-your-child-has-cancer#:~:text=Plan%20Ahead,arrangements%20at%20a%20nearby%20facility
City of Hope. (2024, November 26). Holiday travel tips for cancer patients. https://www.cancercenter.com/community/blog/2023/12/traveling-with-cancer#:~:text=If%20you%20plan%20to%20fly,your%20festive%20best%20this%20season
American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Programs and Resources to Help with Cancer-related Expenses. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/financial-insurance-matters/managing-health-insurance/programs-and-resources-to-help-with-cancer-related-expenses.html#:~:text=Extended%20Stay%20America%20has%20partnered,veterans%20with%20travel%20and%20lodging.\
OncoLink. (2024, August 21). Transportation Resources for Pediatric Cancer Patients. https://www.oncolink.org/cancers/pediatric/resources/transportation-resources-for-pediatric-cancer-patients
Sassy Carmen Foundation. (n.d.). Programs.
OncoLink. (2023, May 3). What is the Role of a Child Life Specialist. https://www.oncolink.org/cancers/pediatric/resources/what-is-the-role-of-a-child-life-specialist
Verywell Health. (2024, March 11). An Overview of Flying with Cancer. https://www.verywellhealth.com/flying-with-cancer-precautions-and-financial-help-2248832#toc-travel-insurance
