This session is designed for parents, guardians, professionals, and community members who want to communicate openly and compassionately with children about cancer. Together, we’ll explore how to support young people through honest, age-appropriate conversations that acknowledge the emotional weight of illness.
 
Topics include:
• How children at different developmental stages understand illness and cancer
• The importance of honest, developmentally appropriate communication
• Simple ways to offer emotional support—even when we don't know exactly what to say
• How validating big feelings fosters emotional intelligence and resilience
• How Gilda’s Toronto supports families through education, connection, and community
 
Grounded in evidence-based practices in child development, grief theory, and family-centered care, this interactive session offers reflection, practical tools, and shared resources. The goal is for each person to leave feeling more equipped to create safer, more informed conversations, and help children feel safe, supported, and seen.

Presenter: Darian Rogers-Sysak

Darian Rogers-Sysak, MSc, CCLS, RECE is the Family Coordinator at Gilda’s Toronto and a Certified Child Life Specialist. She holds a Master of Science in Child Life and Pediatric Psychosocial Care, along with specialized training in child development and infant and early childhood mental health.
 
Over the past seven years, Darian has supported children and families across hospital, community, and early learning settings. She uses evidence-informed, developmentally appropriate interventions—including preparation, play, coping strategies, and psychoeducation—to reduce the impact of stress, anxiety, and trauma. Her practice is grounded in compassion, cultural humility, and a strengths-based philosophy, aiming to empower children and caregivers while fostering confidence in navigating challenging experiences.
 
Darian is also deeply committed to creating emotionally safe, supportive environments for children and families, as well as her colleagues and students, believing that strong, compassionate teams are essential to quality care. Her commitment to this work is further shaped by lived experience: growing up with a parent diagnosed with a hereditary cancer syndrome, she brings empathy, insight, and a personal understanding of the challenges families face, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and supported.

Talking to Children and Teens About Cancer

  • Wednesday Jan 21 2026, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
  • Zoom Webinar