‘A private space with our own bed, shower, and toilet as parents. That’s really nice.’
Marianne says: ‘In the beginning everything was new and we had so many questions. The Máxima Center was still fairly new and not all nurses had the same level of experience. But we could always turn to our nurse practitioner with our questions. As we became more familiar with the hospital, it started to feel trusted. It is strange how something so intense can also become part of your routine.
Lots of things to do
The Princess Máxima Center is clean and well organized, and the staff are all very friendly. There is plenty of distraction for the children, such as the music studio, playing outside on the playground, visits from the CliniClowns, and support from the child life specialists.
Happy to go to the music studio
For Bas, the music studio was very important. He loved being there and making music, especially with his favorite staff member, Niels. For us as parents, and for his brother and sister, it was also a pleasant distraction to spend time there.
Parent and child room
We were also very happy with the parent and child room. Having our own space with our own bed, shower and toilet as parents was really comforting.
Tips for other parents
If I had to describe the Máxima Center in a few words, I would say ‘trusted’, ‘warm’, ‘knowledgeable’ and ‘professional’. My tips for other parents: never hesitate to ask questions, because there is a lot to take in. Stop by the desk of the Dutch National Childhood Cancer Association in the central hall from time to time.
Connecting with other parents
It can also help to connect with other parents, for example through social media. For me as a mother, getting in touch with other mothers on Instagram made a real difference. It helps to know that you are in the same situation and that words of reassurance can give strength and support. And always listen to your own feelings. If you need support for yourself, reach out in time.’
Also read:
- ‘The doctors and nurses take their time and are attentive to parents.’When Hakeem (8) was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, he was immediately referred to the Princess Máxima Center. His father Marvin shares how they experienced the care. ‘I didn’t just feel like the parent of a patient, I also felt seen as a person in a difficult situation.’
- ‘It is an overwhelming process that parents cannot face on their own. As grandparents, we offer support.’After grandson Cees received the Flower bead, granddaughter Anne (12) was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma. A huge shock. The second child in the same family affected by cancer. Grandmother Nelly shares how she was able to support her son’s family both times and talks about her experience with the Princess Máxima Center.
- ‘It may feel as if the Máxima Center doesn’t know death, but unfortunately that’s not the case.’In November 2017, blood was drawn from two-year-old Florian because he had not been feeling well for some time. The family was soon referred to the Princess Máxima Center, where it became clear that Florian had stage 4 neuroblastoma. Within a week, his first chemotherapy treatment started. His mother, Maaike, shares their story.