Advice for supporting family of child diagnosed with cancer

[TheHouseofMirth]

(Wasn't quite sure where to post this so it's also in life-limiting illnesses.)

A child in my son's Year 2 class at school is just about to start 8 months chemo for bone cancer.

We've organised a collection to buy him a present to cheer him up a bit whilst he's in hospital and I'm just wondering if anyone could suggest what kinds of things are most appeciated by children in that situation?

At the moment his parents are, understandably, shell-shocked by all that is going on. We are planning a rota to provide them with home-cooked meals a few times a week but I am wondering if anyone with experience in this situation can suggest other ways we can help?

A cleaner - honestly after dd was diagnosed there just wasn't the time to do any proper cleaning and especially if they have other children it just builds up very quickly and can really get you down.

Keep in contact with them - this may sound silly and obvious but once their ds is on chemo a few months, they will be feeling very isolated as they probably won't be able to visit places due to risk of infection. Having someone pop round for a cup of tea and a chat will make a big difference to them.

There is a thread on here children with cancer, post on there and you will get better suggestions

Luckily, they don't have any other children so are able to focus entirely on him and also I think they already have a cleaner.

Thanks Toughday. I did see the other thread but wasn't sure if I'd be intruding but if you think it's OK I will post there.