For all the important news we've shared in this space at the intersection of Emotions Ave. and Cancer Blvd. -- from the importance of laughing at cancer to the toll caregiving can have on a loved one -- it's a bit embarrassing to admit that we haven't touched on one very important subject, until today. Namely, how to share the news that you're fighting cancer with your young children.

No question, the American Cancer Society provides many sources to guide parents who want and need to talk about their illness with their kids gently. But, for this daunting task, a parent needs age-specific guidance.

That's why one of the best ways to get the conversation going with your child also happens to be the easiest: Sharing a book written just for them. A recent book tackling this subject -- Let My Colors Out, lovingly written by Courtney Filigenzi and beautifully illustrated by Shennen Bersani -- has been on the receiving end of many kudos, all of them well-deserved.

Courtney shares her perspectives about cancer as a writer and Mom, along with what parents can do to prepare their children for this difficult journey.

Q: The hardest part of dealing with cancer -- separate from the toll it takes on a person's mind and body -- is how to share that information with loved ones, particularly their children, then observing how they deal with this knowledge. How did you develop the idea for Colors?

Unfortunately, throughout my life, I have watched family, friends and friend's children face a loved one's cancer diagnosis, treatment, and sometimes death. A situation like this is extremely difficult to deal with, but can be even more devastating if the lines of communication are closed because of the inability to express feelings, or simply not knowing how to start a difficult conversation with someone you love.

Being able to talk through your pain and fears is extremely healing and helps forge bonds with those you love. I saw a need but knew it was not my place to start these conversations. I created Let My Colors Out so those I love and care about had a tool that could help them through these difficult times.

Q: Colors maps out the various stages of grieving a child will face, a la Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. Was her work an influence on your book?

The idea for Let My Colors Out was greatly influenced by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross's Five Stages of Grief. Life experience, as well as my study of her work, helped me realize that the stages of grief could encompass any difficult time in our lives.

I expanded on them and represented the range of emotions with colors. I found that colors simplified very complex emotions making it easier for children to express themselves. Children who have used my book will say, "Mom, I feel purple today. I need a hug," or "Mom, I'm so happy you're feeling better! Today's a yellow day!" Let My Colors Out has also enabled parents to discuss much more difficult subjects, such as their spirituality and what happens after death.

Q: What do you want parents and kids to learn from reading your book together?

I want families to learn that no matter how old or how young you are, when your family is facing a difficult time, everyone will have the same fears, hopes and feelings. As a family unit, you need to bond and talk about those feelings, so you can grow together from the experience.

Q: What did you learn after the writing and making of this book about cancer and kids that, perhaps, you didn't know beforehand?

Many children have become the silent victims of this horrific disease because they were scared to express themselves. There are many resources available to help them through this difficult time. The American Cancer Society is an incredible resource and parents can also utilize their school counselors and pediatricians to help them through this difficult time.

Families need to realize that they are not alone. Reach out for help. It is there.

Q: Just as moving for me was to learn, afterward, that your collaborator on Colors, illustrator Shennen Bersani, was diagnosed with and fighting cancer while working on the book. Shennen's life experience was felt in this project, as her children experienced the very same emotions as did the boy in your story. Did you feel this way too?

I was deeply moved when I found out Shennen was diagnosed with cancer during her work on my book. Knowing that it became a work of her heart, and that it helped both her and her children meant more to me than words can express.

Q: What advice do you have for parents who are fighting cancer and struggling with how to share this with their kids?

If you are unsure of how to breach this very difficult subject with your children, talk to a counselor or doctor for an age appropriate way to explain what is going on. There are people available at the American Cancer Society 24/7 at 800.227.2345 for any questions you may have. Utilize the resources available. You are not alone. Do not avoid the subject because children are very aware of their environment and will be able to tell something is going on. They need you and you need them.

Most of all, never give up hope.