I have two young children, one who is affected by Alpha-1 and another who is healthy. Do you have any suggestions for how to support my healthy son through this time?

While it is crucial for your child affected by Alpha-1 to receive your emotional support, it is also very important to provide your other child with enough of your time, attention, and love. It is very important to talk openly, and in words your healthy child can developmentally comprehend, about his sibling’s illness. When children are kept in the unknown regarding family issues/illness, the tension is felt and children are unsure with what to do with these confusing feelings. Allowing your child to ask questions and have an understanding of the illness can help conquer this ambiguity and help him to feel more in control. Your healthy child may also feel left out and could begin to behave in ways to gain your attention, negatively and/or positively. To help with this difficult adjustment for your healthy son, you may want to take time to create a special activity that just you and your son share. This time spent with your healthy son may help him to feel secure and comforted by knowing you are always going to support and be there for him as well.

Note: If you have questions you would like us to work on, please submit them to us at questions@alpha1kids.org.