The aim of this article is to illustrate what characterizes the relationship between volunteers, parents and children within the framework of a respite program for families who have a child with a life-threatening illness. The data that is analysed was gathered through individual and group interviews with parents, children, volunteers and employees of the program. While underlying the positive aspects of such a program, our research results also reveal the contradictory tensions that are inherent to this type of accompaniment. These tensions must be taken into account by workers and volunteers involved in order to maintain the quality of the program.