This can give the parent time to go out to eat or take a walk. When I wanted to have a conference with the oncologist about Katy's protocol, I called recreation therapy and they sent two wonderful ladies to the clinic. The doctor and I were able to talk privately for an hour, and Katy had a great time making herself a gold crown and decorating her wheelchair with streamers and jewels. Find out if there are support groups for teens. You might also try to bend the rules a bit to allow your teen to have friends in visiting as much as possible.
Exercise is important, too.
For kids strong enough to walk, exploring the hospital can be fun. Plan a daily excursion to the gift shop or the cafeteria. Go outside and walk the entire perimeter of the hospital if weather and the neighborhood permit. Any action that parents, family members, and friends take to support and advocate for the youngster with cancer buoys up the spirit.