Frank Lampard calls for better support for parents whose children have cancer

Frank Lampard is calling for better support for dads who are left to cope when their children are diagnosed with cancer.

The former England international and Chelsea footballer said today they must not “suffer in silence.”

The 39-year-old, who has two young daughters by former partner Elen Rives and is now married to Loose Women presenter Christine Bleakley, said: “Being a dad myself, I know how hard it is to stay strong for a family. But I can’t even imagine what it must be like to do that and have a child going through cancer treatment.”

Lampard is backing a campaign aimed at breaking the stigma for parents who often find themselves isolated and in need of help.

The awareness drive has been launched by CLIC Sargent who say more than half (63%) of parents experience depression during their child’s treatment.

Others endure panic attacks and loneliness yet less than two in five seek support, according to the charity which is highlighting the ‘hidden costs’ of diagnosis.

Fathers in particular can struggle because they feel they have to be strong for everyone else.

This week, Lampard met a group of fathers who shared their stories about the impact of diagnosis and ongoing treatment.

All the men he spoke with have received emotional support from social worker Jan Roberts.

Ms Roberts, from CLIC Sargent, said: “A child’s cancer diagnosis places a huge emotional strain on the whole family. Dads often say they feel they have to be strong and not show their emotions.

“But we know that being able to talk about their feelings, especially if it’s with other parents in a similar situation can really make a difference.”

Lampard met the fathers on a visit to Paul’s House, in Euston, which provides a place to stay for families with children being treated at University College Hospital.

Lampard added: “I was in awe of these dads and how they handle it. It’s so important to have groups like this, and encourage mums and dads to talk about the impact it has on them too and not suffer in silence.”

Rick Austin, 39, was told a year ago on his daughter Isla’s first birthday that she had a rare but high risk form of cancer called neuroblastoma.

The senior business analyst from Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, said: “It was great having Frank there to listen to what everyone has been through. I’m a football fan anyway so it was good having Frank there to add another dimension.”