OUTLINE: Patients are randomized to 1 of 2 groups.~GROUP I (ENHANCING CONNECTIONS-PALLIATIVE CARE [EC-PC] PROGRAM): Patients receive the 5-session EC-PC program bi-weekly with a patient educator about ways to help them talk to and support their child.~GROUP II (CONTROL): Patients receive carefully selected educational booklet that discuss ways to talk about their cancer with their child and a scripted phone call from a trained phone counselor on study.
This trial examines the usefulness of two educational programs for parents with late-stage cancer who have a 5 - 17 year old child. The programs are designed to enhance the quality of the parent-child relationship and add to the parent's confidence in managing the impact of their cancer on their child. Educational programs may reduce anxiety and depression and improve the well-being and quality of life of parents with advanced cancers and their children.