‘It is an overwhelming process that parents cannot face on their own. As grandparents, we offer support.’

‘From the very first contact with the Máxima Center, I was closely involved. I worked in a hospital myself, so I know a bit more about the medical world. That’s an advantage. I was often present during tests, results, treatments, and surgeries. After Cees received the bead for the end of his treatment, he moved on to the LATER clinic. Since then, he only goes to the Máxima Center for checkups.

The second time

My close contact with the Máxima Center started again only recently. Our oldest granddaughter, Anne (12), was diagnosed with a Ewing sarcoma in her spine. That was a huge shock — the second child in one family to be affected by cancer. I was again able to support my daughter-in-law and son in many ways. I joined them for the proton therapy sessions in Groningen and the chemotherapy treatments at the Máxima Center. Anne is a brave girl who knows what she wants. She is already back at school. Follow-up tests and checkups are planned.

A warm environment

At the Máxima Center, everything revolves around the best interests of the patients. It truly feels like a warm and welcoming place. The staff are dedicated, skilled, and kind. They are worth their weight in gold, and nothing is ever too much for them. It’s always possible to talk things over, even when you share your own hospital experiences, as I sometimes do. And the building itself is wonderful — the restaurant is lovely, and there are so many activities for the children. For Anne, the art sessions with Café des Artistes were the highlight.

Ask for help

My advice to other parents is to ask for help when you need it. Especially if you don’t have close family nearby for support, this is very important. It’s an overwhelming process when your child is diagnosed with cancer, and as parents, you can hardly face it alone. As grandparents of Cees and Anne, we were happy to offer our help and support — and we still do.’