Neuro-Oncology Program
We know that when your child has a brain or spinal cord tumor, it affects every part of your family’s life. You may be balancing medical appointments, school concerns, work responsibilities and difficult emotions all at once. We’re here to help. At Phoenix Children’s, we offer a wide range of support services and resources to help you navigate your child’s cancer journey with confidence.
Our team is here to support your family in meaningful, practical ways. Whether it’s assistance with finances, schoolwork coordination or connecting you with helpful tools and community resources, our team of specialists is committed to helping you feel informed, supported and cared for.
What to Expect
Every child’s journey is different, but our goal is to make each step as clear, coordinated and supportive as possible for your family.
Your First Visit
Your child may come to us with a new diagnosis, a suspected condition or for a second opinion. During your first visit, you’ll meet with a neuro-oncology specialist who will:
- Review your child’s medical history, tests and imaging
- Explain the diagnosis and any additional testing that’s needed
- Answer your questions and talk through next steps
Personalized Care Plan
After gathering all the necessary information, your child’s case is reviewed by our multidisciplinary team. Together, we develop a treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific condition and needs. This plan may include monitoring, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or a combination of treatments, depending on your child’s unique needs and health history.
Coordinated, Ongoing Care
Throughout treatment, your family will have a dedicated care team to guide you. Our Nurse Coordinators help schedule appointments and serve as the main point of contact between you and your child’s team. Your child’s team of specialists works together to streamline visits and testing to minimize the disruption to your life. Because we know cancer affects more than physical health, mental health support services are integrated into your child’s care.
Support for Your Child and Family
We understand this experience affects the whole family. Along the way, you’ll have access to:
- Emotional and mental health support
- Help with school planning and daily life needs
- Nutrition guidance and child life services to support your child during visits and procedures
After Treatment
Care continues even after treatment ends. Our team monitors your child’s long-term health, development and well-being through follow-up visits and specialized survivorship care. At every stage, we are here to answer questions, provide guidance and help your family feel supported and informed.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know caring for a child with a brain or spinal cord tumor can bring uncertainty, questions and challenges. We’re here to help you navigate each step with confidence. Here are answers to some of the most common questions to help you get the answers you’re looking for.
Your child may be referred to a neuro-oncologist if imaging or other tests show a possible problem with their brain or spinal cord. Symptoms such as persistent headaches, vision changes or balance issues may be a sign that something is going on that needs further evaluation. Your child’s primary care provider can help you decide if the symptoms are concerning enough to need an MRI or to meet with a neuro-oncologist.
No. Some brain tumors are low-grade, slow-growing tumors that are not considered malignant (cancerous). Even non-cancerous tumors may still need treatment depending on their size, location and how they affect your child’s health.
Not always. Treatment is based on the type of tumor and your child’s health history. Some children only need monitoring, while others may need one or more types of treatment for the best result.
Our team of specialists reviews your child’s case together and makes treatment recommendations based on several factors, such as the tumor type, where the tumor is located and your child’s age and overall health. We then meet with your family to discuss recommendations and answer questions before moving forward.
We offer support for your entire family, with school planning, emotional care, nutrition and access to community resources. Your nurse coordinator serves as a central point of contact to answer questions, guide you through the next steps and connect you with the resources your family needs.
Treatment for brain and spinal tumors varies depending on your child’s diagnosis and the type of care needed. Some children may only need monitoring or a short course of treatment. Others may receive therapy over several months or longer, followed by ongoing follow-up care.
Most treatments are given during outpatient visits. Others, such as surgery or certain therapies, may require a hospital stay. Your care team will explain what to expect based on your child’s specific needs.
The timing varies for every child. Your care team will help determine when it is safe for your child to return to school and can assist with school planning and accommodation to support your child during treatment and recovery.
Every family’s situation is different. Your child’s treatment schedule and care needs may affect your ability to work – especially during the early stages of their treatment. Our social workers connect you with resources and support to help you navigate your unique situation.
Contact your child’s care team right away if your child develops a fever or other concerning symptoms. Your care team will tell you what temperature to watch for and what to do based on your child’s diagnosis and treatment.
A brain or spinal cord tumor diagnosis can affect many aspects of daily life, including school, work and family activities. Your care team will work with you to coordinate appointments, provide support services and help minimize disruptions whenever possible.
Restrictions vary depending on your child’s diagnosis, treatment and overall health. Your care team will provide individualized recommendations and let you know if any precautions are needed during treatment.