[Halima Ali]

#95235

Upholding dignity is one of the most fundamental human principles that underpins children’s palliative care. Dignity does not consist merely of alleviating pain and other symptoms. It is a process that treats the sick child as a whole person; namely, the child’s identity, relationships, and inherent worth are respected during the whole process of sickness.

A child’s dignity is affirmed when he/she is acknowledged and listened to. That is, when he/she is given respect as a little person even when the decision is made for them as a function of their age and comprehension. It is giving them simple choices like deciding what to wear, what game to play, and what music to listen to. It is also about communicating honestly and sensitively, allaying their fears and hopes, and never speaking about them as if they were not there. This affirmation of their humanity helps to counter the feeling of powerlessness that is often associated with a severe illness.

The aspect of dignity that is to be preserved covers both the physical and emotional spheres. A child not only needs to be free from pain but also needs to be in a good mood before he/she can participate in life; for example, he/she can be the source of laughter to his/her siblings or simply enjoy a good rest. It is very important to maintain their confidentiality during personal care and to create an environment that is warm, safe, and inviting rather than clinical. This is particularly important for young adults, who have to deal with body image and independence issues while facing health challenges.

In the end, an approach that considers dignity to be of utmost importance not only acknowledges the fact that every day presents new opportunities for meaning and connection but also facilitates the child and his/her family to make everlasting memories, experience delight in small things, and reinforce the idea that their life, irrespective of its duration, is of great importance. In fact, the presence of dignity in every interaction makes it easy for children’s palliative care to conclude that a child’s last chapter is not characterized by the illness but love, respect, and a strong recognition of the child’s unique spirit.

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