Bone marrow transplant

[beepbeep]

My DN goes into GOSH next week for a BMT, he's 5. We live quite a way from the hospital so both his parents will be staying with him, is there anyone who has had a child who has had this procedure?

What kept your child amused? (Anything we can get him or send him whilst he's there?)

What about his parents? What made your life a bit more bearable whilst you were there?

Don't really want to bother them too much with questions as they have enough on their plates.

Any suggestions greatly appreciated x

DVDs or tunes voucher do can download stuff?

crafty stuff

Most things will likely have to be wiped down before going in to strict isolation so would advised against lots of cuddly toys etc.

vouchers for food places - they will likely be buying lots of ready meals! And they are expensive. Also when a child has bmt and isn't very hungry anything they show an interest in will usually be bought to tempt them to eat - so expensive!

regular letters/funny post cards? Actually sent via mail -always exciting to get mail!

Hand cream/nice moisturiser for mum/dad

Does DH/his parents have an e-reader? Books/stories for that (some for DN and some for the grown ups)

I would absolutely second food vouchers. Friends who have had kids in at GOSH have complained bitterly about the costs involved - the local supermarket is a waitrose and there is a whole host of chain eateries in the area - carluccio, nando, pizza express, ask, gourmet burger etc.

The other thing which might help as they are going to be there long term would be change - there is a laundry facility for parents I believe but I don't know what coins it takes (it has been ages since one of my friends stayed in long term).

Crafty stuff is great for keeping kids occupied (and sometimes parents too depending on their interests , I knit and it is not uncommon for people to comment that they started when their kid was in hospital).