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If you have a sibling with osteosarcoma, you may want to help but not know how. You may have feelings to deal with and questions that need answers. This section provides helpful tips and answers just for you.

How can I help as a sibling?

Learning about osteosarcoma can help you know what to expect and how you can help your brother or sister. Remember, even though they may look different and experiencing some changes, they are still the same person.

Help your sibling find other hobbies more suitable for the new physical challenges they may now have.

Help your sibling readjust to school. Because of the physical changes that occur as a result of the osteosarcoma or treatment, they may face extra challenges in doing their school work or participating in sports. Stick by your sibling because they may also be teased by other people who don't understand osteosarcoma.

What feelings am I having?

• Do you feel that your parents are worrying too much about you or not paying enough attention?
• Do you fear that something will happen to you, too?
• Do you feel guilty or selfish having fun when your sibling is going through such a hard time?
• Are you angry that your brother or sister became sick and can no longer be there for you as often as you would like?
• Are you upset because you have to take on more responsibility than you would normally have because your family is preoccupied with your sibling's illness?

It is possible to feel many things at the same time. You can love and care for a person while resenting that your own needs aren't being met. These are all normal problems, and do not mean you are not concerned about your sick sibling when you think about yourself. You have a right to continue your life and meet your own needs; although you may need to adjust to the life changes caused by your loved one's illness.

How can I deal with my feelings?

When dealing with illness, you may feel as though you need to be strong. Don't keep your feelings and emotions to yourself, but find someone to talk to about these feeling. Sharing will help you realize that your feelings are not wrong or unusual.

When you are ready to talk about your feelings, you need to find someone that you feel comfortable talking to and sharing your feelings. This person may be a parent, sibling, friend, relative, teacher, coach, school counselor or clergyman. Sharing your feelings with a loved one will also help the other person realize that he or she is not alone and could encourage open communication and sharing of his or her feelings with you as well.