Podcasts about pediatric cancer

Allie Andres always ended her notes and letters with the words, "Don't worry about me. I'll see you soon."  Because of her faith in Jesus, Allie knew that death was not the end of her story. She would see her loved ones again.(If you missed the first half of my conversation with Dan & Melissa, click HERE to listen!)  In this second half of our conversation, Dan and Melissa Andres share what life has been like during the first eighteen months since Allie's homegoing. They speak candidly about the loneliness, the unexpected challenges of the second year of grief, and the daily choice to trust the God who has faithfully carried them through every step of this journey.Together, we talk about learning to grieve as husband and wife, navigating holidays and milestones, returning to church, the healing gift of music, and the eternal perspective that allows them to keep moving forward ... not because they've left Allie behind, but because they're one day closer to seeing her again.Perhaps most importantly, Dan and Melissa offer gentle, biblical encouragement for parents who are just beginning this road, reminding us that our hope is not found in the absence of sorrow, but in the certainty of Christ and the promise of Heaven.For the grieving parent, "I'll see you soon" is more than a comforting phrase. It is the promise of the gospel. Because Jesus conquered death, our separation is only temporary. The reunion is coming.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry.  We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at:  jill@whilewerewaiting.org 

"Don't worry about me. I'll see you soon."  ~ AllieWhen sixteen-year-old Allie Andres was diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma (DMG), an aggressive and incurable pediatric brain cancer, her family was suddenly faced with every parent's worst nightmare. But instead of allowing fear to define her remaining days, Allie chose to embrace each one with extraordinary faith, contagious joy, and an unwavering focus on eternity.In this first half of our conversation, Dan and Melissa Andres share Allie's story ... from the first subtle symptoms to the way she responded after learning she had only months to live, choosing to spend the rest of her days preparing others for Heaven.  They talk about the precious gift of seventeen months together, and the intentional way their family filled that time with unforgettable memories, meaningful conversations, and a deep confidence in God's goodness.This episode is a beautiful reminder that while we can't choose our circumstances, we can choose how we live through them. Allie's story is one of courage, purpose, and a hope that reaches far beyond this life.Join us next week for the second half of our conversation as Dan and Melissa share what life has been like since Allie went to Heaven, how their grief has evolved, what God has taught them through child loss, and the hope that continues to carry them forward.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry.  We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at:  jill@whilewerewaiting.org 

Dr. Tyler Severance is a pediatric hematologist-oncologist at University of Missouri Healthcare, which means he works with kids who have blood and cancer disorders. He spoke about some of the short and long-term impacts cancer treatment can have on kids

What is it really like inside a pediatric cancer hospital? Most families only experience one side of cancer treatment. But behind the hospital doors, pediatric oncology nurses witness the victories, the heartbreaks, the long nights, and the countless moments that never make it into a medical chart. In this episode, I sit down with pediatric oncology nurse Savannah Cruz, who has spent years caring for children receiving chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, and some of the most intensive cancer treatments available. Now, as part of the Biodynamic Wellness team, Savannah brings a unique perspective that bridges conventional pediatric oncology with functional medicine. Together, we discuss what daily life inside a children's cancer hospital really looks like—from the food served during treatment and the hidden environmental exposures families often overlook, to why nutrition, detoxification, emotional support, and advocacy can play such an important complementary role alongside standard cancer care. This conversation isn't about choosing one approach over another. It's about helping families understand where conventional medicine saves lives, where functional medicine can fill important gaps, and how parents can become confident partners in their child's healing journey.   LINKS   Guest: Instagram: @savannahrcruz Book a Discovery Call: https://biodynamicwellness.com   Recommended Tools & Resources: Hospital Essentials Checklist A practical guide for families preparing for inpatient hospital stays, including recommended foods, comfort items, and simple ways to create a more healing environment. https://yourthriveformula.com/hospital-essentials   Fullscript (Practitioner-Grade Supplements) If you're looking for high-quality, practitioner-grade supplements to support your health, Season has created a hand-curated Fullscript dispensary with the exact products she trusts and uses in practice. You'll also receive 15% off your first order plus 5% off for life as a podcast listener. https://bit.ly/seasonsfullscript   LumeBox Red Light Therapy Red light therapy is one of my favorite complementary tools to support healing, reduce inflammation, encourage cellular repair, and promote recovery during and after treatment.   Free Protocol Guide https://yourthriveformula.com/free-protocol-guide LumeBox Device https://bit.ly/seasonjohnsonlume Use code SEASONJOHNSON to save $260.   Community & Support: Join Thrive Through Cancer Community: https://biodynamicwellness.com/thrive-through-cancer  Thrive Beyond Cancer Program: https://biodynamicwellness.com/thrive-beyond-cancer Learn More About Biodynamic Wellness: https://biodynamicwellness.com Connect with Season: Website: www.seasonjohnson.com Instagram: @seasonjohnson  

Zach Arter had been serving youths in Omaha Nebraska for 15 years in various capacities and then decided to focus on helping Pediatric Cancer patients in August of 2024. That is when he started his HELP 1 PERSON TODAY with this non-profit which tries in a number of ways to help these kids who have to go through difficult treatment during their individual cancer battles.

As Toni and Dylan Franklin were in the playground with their children Noelle and Dylan in the spring of 2024, Noelle asked her dad to look at a bump that had formed on her leg. Withing a week Noelle was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a very difficult Bone Cancer. After being treated at the Pediatric Cancer hospital at Duke University which did not go well, Noelle was transferred to the Pediatric Cancer hospital at the University of North Carolina. Despite the treatment that was more to the benefit to Noelle, she was unable to recover and passed away on May 12th of 2025, almost exactly one year after her original diagnosis. 

Danielle Snare, mom of a child cancer survivor and race director, joins John Landecker to talk about the 10th annual Stan’s Donut Race to help raise funds for Cal’s Angels, a pediatric cancer foundation. Danielle also shares her story as a mom of a pediatric cancer survivor. The race is on July 18th, and to […]

Andrea Wilson had two very difficult health crises on her hands, one with her younger daughter Phoenix who was diagnosed with Stage 3 High Risk  Neuroblastoma when she was 3 years old in 2017,  and one with her older daughter Liberty who contracted Septic Pneumonia while Phoenix was in treatment. Phoenix was on the 7th floor of Phoenix Children's Hospital while Liberty was on the 9th floor. Fortunately both girls are surviving and doing well and Andrea and her family are looking onto the possibility of trying to build a Western Style Ranch with horses, so that Pediatric Cancer families can have a place to go to for healing purposes. 

Account Executive at WGN Radio, Kevin McDonough joins Lisa Dent along with his father-in-law, Pat Grant to talk about Pat Mac’s Pack Bike Ride happening on Friday, June 26th. The annual bike ride, founded by Pat Grant, helps not only support pediatric cancer research, but raises money in financial assistance for young cancer patients and […]

Quiet Tenacity: A Family's Journey Through Pediatric CancerWhat happens 10 years after a child hears the words, "You have cancer"?In this powerful episode of Game Over: c*ncer, hosts Dana Nichols and Val Solomon welcome Nick and Rachel Mangan, parents of pediatric brain cancer survivor Lantz Mangan, to share their family's incredible journey through diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and hope.At just six years old, Lantz was diagnosed with a rare pediatric brain tumor. Facing impossible decisions about chemotherapy, radiation, clinical treatment options, and long-term side effects, his parents became fierce advocates for innovative cancer care and pediatric cancer research.Now, 10 years cancer-free, Lantz is thriving as a teenager, proving why research matters and why organizations like Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation continue fighting for better treatments for children diagnosed with cancer.In this episode, you'll learn:-How Lantz's rare brain tumor was diagnosed-Why his parents declined radiation treatment-The experimental targeted therapy that changed everything-The emotional reality of pediatric cancer survivorship-How research creates new treatment options for children-The importance of second opinions and parent advocacy-How Gabriel Therapy Group and Keep On Walking are giving back to families today-Why hope and gratitude remain at the center of their journeyIf you're a pediatric cancer family, survivor, advocate, researcher, healthcare professional, or simply someone who believes every child deserves a future, this episode is for you.Learn more about Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation and support pediatric cancer research: cannonballkidscancer.orgLearn more about Gabrial Therapy Group or Keep on Walking: www.gabrieltherapygroup.com----------------------------------Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/----------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, on a trip to the Netherlands as state guests, visited a pediatric cancer center in Utrecht on Friday.

 When a child is diagnosed with cancer, families are often left searching for answers, support, and hope beyond conventional treatment alone. Yet many parents don't realize there are ways to support the body alongside chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery through personalized nutrition, functional testing, and root-cause health strategies.   On today's episode Season Johnson shares her powerful journey from navigating her own son's leukemia diagnosis at age three to becoming a leading practitioner in the pediatric cancer space. She explains how her family's experience inspired her mission to help children and families thrive through and beyond cancer treatment.   We discuss the role of functional medicine lab testing, toxin exposure, and personalized health protocols in supporting recovery, reducing side effects, and creating an environment where optimal healing can take place. Season also highlights the importance of hope, human connection, and compassionate care during some of life's most challenging moments.   If you'd like to learn how integrative health coaching and functional testing can support families facing cancer while complementing conventional care, tune in to today's Integrative #HealthCoachSuccess episode 441.   Enjoy the show, and let us know what you think! - - -   Listen or Watch At:  IHP.Coach/441   - - - Dr. Cabral's Book, The Rain Barrel Effect: https://amzn.to/2H0W7Ge - - - Become an Integrative Health Practitioner: https://integrativehealthpractitioner.org  

Gwen Mysiak worked in the field of Public Broadcasting for 19 years in Buffalo and during that time, her friend's cousin Andrew Pawlak was 13 years old and in 7th grade when he was diagnosed with a form of Pediatric Cancer and passed away 2 years later. Not too much time went by after that before Gwen switched carriers to become the Punt Pediatric Cancer Collaborative's Executive Director in 2012. This Collaborative focuses on 6 major programs to help families deal with a Pediatric Cancer situation, with a special emphasis on their bereavement program.

Why is pediatric brain cancer research so underfunded, and what does it actually take to build breakthroughs for children fighting cancer?In this episode of Game Over: c*ncer, Val Solomon and Dana Nichols sit down with Dr. John Prensner, pediatric neuro-oncologist, researcher, and Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Michigan Medical School. As the recipient of the 2025 Young Investigator Grant from Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation, Dr. Prensner is leading groundbreaking research focused on relapsed medulloblastoma, DIPG, ATRT, and the molecular drivers behind pediatric brain tumors.Dr. Prensner shares the deeply personal story that inspired him to pursue pediatric cancer research after encountering a young mother dying of brain cancer during his early hospital experiences. The conversation explores the emotional realities of pediatric oncology, the importance of mentorship in science, and how collaboration between labs, institutions, and researchers across the world is accelerating innovation for children with cancer.This episode also dives into the growing concerns surrounding pediatric cancer funding, NIH research grants, instability in federal funding, and the long-term effects these challenges have on the future pipeline of childhood cancer researchers and scientific breakthroughs.If you care about advancing pediatric cancer research, supporting innovative treatments, and learning how researchers are working to change outcomes for children battling cancer, this episode is for you.----------------------------------Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/----------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Marissa Metcalf does not remember many details from her treatment during her battle with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia which took place in 2010 when she was 3 1/2 years old. What she does know, now that she is 19 years old and looking at possible careers, is that this form of Pediatric Blood cancer has affected her in different ways as she approaches 20 years of age, and wants to help others who have been diagnosed with cancer by becoming an Oncology Nurse, which would be a great accomplishment for her and a good thing for her future patients.

Lily and Sebastian McGrath's 2 1/2 year old son Bryson was first thought to have a Wilms Tumor before his Pediatric Cancer diagnosis was changed to Stage 4 Neuroblastoma in the early days of 2023. Lily and Sebastian had to put up with a number of more than questionable medical decisions during Bryson's fight and also had to endure the final days of Bryson's life who while in Hospice Care, was  promised 24 hour round the clock availability should they be needed and when they were needed the most, they were nowhere to be found. Lily also had to watch after Bryson passed away while one of the Hospice nurses attempted to rip off all of Bryson's dressings, instead of treating her son with the kid gloves that he more than deserved. 

Brody Bailey is one of possibly two children in the World who have been born with a Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia and then diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. Lauren and TJ Bailey are Brody's parents and will talk about his journey with the good news being that he is more than 3 years old and is doing as well as possible health wise. The Bailey family has received great support from their Township of Deptford New Jersey community, especially from Rich Nardiello who is the head of the great Pop Pop Custom Cars Non-Profit and a wonderful advocate for the cause of Pediatric Cancer. 

Jordan Belous has always had a soft spot for Pediatric Cancer Patients and when she was 16 years old in 2015 she issued a "challenge", much like the Ice Bucket Challenge, when she created a video that went viral by dancing for 14 seconds to the song WHIP/NAE NAE by Rapper Silento to either Dance or Donate. More than 7000 people took up her challenge and donated more than $100,000 to Memorial Sloan Kettering to fight the cause of Pediatric Cancer. That was the birth of her WHIP PEDIATRIC CANCER Non- Profit. Since that time Jordan has personally developed long standing and iron clad friendships with more than 300 Pediatric Cancer patients and has done extraordinary work for these kids, their families and the cause of Pediatric Cancer. 

Mason Fox was 10 years old when he was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in April of 2023. Mason then went through treatment and was doing very well with his recovery before a Fungal infection got the best of him quickly in February of 2024, and led to his surprising and unfortunate passing, not even 10 full months past his original diagnosis. His parents Leslie and Michael detail the amazing persona that Mason had as he was most concerned with helping others even during treatment for this blood cancer, as he bought toys with his own money and would walk down the halls at St. Joseph's Children's Hospital with these toys in a wagon, hooked up to his IV pole, and would deliver them to the other Pediatric Cancer patients on his floor. 

Liam Bascle was only able to live 7 1/2 years because of an Ependymoma Brain Tumor that he was diagnosed with in April of 2015. His persona resonated with many people despite his tender age and many tributes came his way after his very unfortunate passing in November of 2021, after fighting with this Brain Tumor for 6 1/2 years . To honor the memory of their beloved son his father Nick, with support from his mom Sarah, started the Links Fore Liam Golf Tournament in New Hampshire to help raise money for the cause of Ependymoma and Pediatric Cancer. This tournament is now held in  New Hampshire, Colorado, and Louisiana, with at least 4 more locations on the horizon. 

Ryan Noufer created his indie short film "Mary The Widow," to tell a story about Dementia from a unique perspective of a woman attending a speed-dating seminar for widowed seniors. In the interview he shares his experiences with his own grandmother, feelings on mental health, and how art can help to process emotion, including our worst fears. You can follow his work @ryannoufer on Instagram. Please go to www.kidsandart.com to support and share this month's highlighted charity. Kids & Art is a nonprofit using Art to help patients with Pediatric Cancer, a perfect charity to go along with this month's focus on independent storytellers using film to share perspectives on mental health, relationships, and being a human being. 

A chance phone call between Amy Davis and a friend who was taking her daughter to get checked for allergies, led Amy to take her then 2 year and 10 month old daughter Phoebe to see her Pediatrician, where shortly thereafter she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in June of 2010. Phoebe was in Boston Children's Hospital for 8 weeks and completed her treatment as an outpatient for the next 26 months, until she was 5 years old. From that time on Phoebe has been cancer free with no long term side effects, and is feeling great as an 18 year old. It is always nice to talk about successful Pediatric Cancer journey's on this podcast. 

This episode is really special to me.You're going to meet two girls who are both showing us what strength looks like… just in very different ways.First, you'll meet Leahla. Right now, she's going through treatment for Hodgkin's lymphoma. And the way she talks about it? The way she carries herself? It stopped me in my tracks.She's not looking for pity. She's not calling herself a “nebach.” Her words: “We're not nebachs. We're heroes.”And once you hear her explain what that means… you won't forget it.Then you'll meet Sari.After her baby sister spent time in the NICU, Sari realized something powerful: She doesn't just want to learn… she wants to help.She's already thinking about becoming a nurse one day, maybe in oncology, maybe in the NICU… and the way she talks about caring for people, really seeing them, is something every kid (and adult!) needs to hear.So this episode is about two kinds of strength: ✨ The strength to go through something hard ✨ And the strength to step up and help others through it 

The Lower Chesapeake Bay Fishing Report is your best resource for the Virginia Beach Fishing Report, Ocean View Fishing Report, Norfolk Fishing Report, Lynnhaven Inlet Fishing Report, and everywhere in between.For the anglers looking for an Eastern Shore Fishing Report, Hampton fishing report, Buckroe Beach Fishing Report, or York River fishing report, look no further. Every week we bring you a report for those anglers interested in a Cape Charles fishing report and a Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel fishing report and for every location in the Lower Chesapeake Bay. For our guys looking for the Virginia fishing report, we've got you covered.This week is the big event! Now is the time to get your crew together and get signed up!! Captains meeting this Friday April 24th @4pm at Long Bay Pointe Bait & Tackle. If you love catching red fish, and being part of the fishing community that helps others, then go register or become a sponsor for Tight Lines for Tiny Fighters Fishing Tournament. This fundraiser will be giving all proceeds to help with families dealing with the challenge of pediatric cancer, and all the prizes are donated by sponsors, plus calcutta's for cash prizes. Ava Bourne is working hard to bring this event back for the 2nd year! We hope you will join her and others to make the return of this event another big WIN! After party at Ballyhoo's on Saturday starting at 3pm, Raffle tickets and prizes, food, drink, come out and be a part whether you fish or not! To get involved, text or call Ava, 757-807-0725Next, we catch up with Captain Bill Pappas from Playin Hookey Charters to hear about their ride into the deep blue to chase pelagics, specifically Tuna! They get a big surprise with big gaffer Mahi Mahi! They have been catching some GIANT tog too, on the near shore wrecks, including one that looks just like Jay Leno!! You won't want to miss this story, lot's of great nuggets to learn and a bonus tip for anyone who suffers motion sickness, Bill's son LB confirmed the best remedy they have found to date, is the Walmart Brand patches, that go behind the ear. MQ Motion Patch. Get booked and get hooked! (757) 619-3530Sponsors:Hilton's Realtime-NavigatorAFTCOBlack BuffaloSlip Ski SolutionsPure Flats

Erik Rees became an amazing Cancer Dad and Pediatric Cancer advocate during and after his daughter Jessie battled with and passed away from DIPG at the age of 12 in January of 2012. Erik talks about his beloved daughter and then details the Jessie Rees Foundation which was started because of Jessie's wish to help Pediatric Cancer patients who were at Children's Hospital of Orange County in California. Jessie started her Jessie's Joy Jars while battling her Pediatric Brain Cancer, and nearly 600,000 patients have received these Joy Jars in the United States and across the globe since Jessie was able to donate 3000 of these to patients before her passing. This foundation now raises 5 1/2 million dollars each year.

What does it really take to run a nonprofit and fund life-saving pediatric cancer research?In this episode of Game Over: c*ncer, we explore the unseen labor behind nonprofit organizations and the behind-the-scenes roles that make fundraising, donor relationships, and events possible.Val Solomon and Dana Nichols from Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation sit down with Development Assistant Amy Robertson to talk about:The hidden work behind nonprofit events like runDisneyHow donor stewardship actually worksWhy administrative and operational roles are critical to impactThe emotional reality of working in pediatric cancer advocacyThe truth about funding in pediatric cancer researchAmy shares her journey from mental health and social work into nonprofit development, offering a powerful perspective on how impact happens at every level of an organization.If you've ever attended a fundraising event, donated to a cause, or wondered how nonprofits operate behind the scenes, this episode will change how you see it.----------------------------------Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/----------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Ben Shroyers then  2 year old daughter Hannah was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma in 2018, then was diagnosed with Histiocytosis which ended up in her brain before she became cancer free in 2021. Now 10 years old and in 3rd grade, Hannah is doing well health wise. Ben started the Casting For The Kids Foundation in 2020 during the pandemic as a way to help families both emotionally and financially through a fishing tournament which has now raised $460,000 over the past 6 years . Ben is an amazing advocate for families in the Sarasota, Florida area and what he has accomplished through his foundation for many individuals and families in the Pediatric Cancer world is truly outstanding.

When Kelly DiGiammo's son Brayden was 13 years old in early 2024 he developed troubling health symptoms, including going from being one of the fastest runners in the school to losing his breath and running very slowly, experiencing continuing colds, and then having a bout with the flu. Brayden was diagnosed late in February of that year with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Brayden successfully completed a Stem Cell Transplant and has been in remission since May of 2024. Kelly and Brayden will talk about his journey which has been a successful one and Kelly will also talk about her experiences getting involved in advocacy work for the cause of Pediatric Cancer. 

What do you do when the system meant to care for people… falls short? You build something better. On this episode of The Women's Eye Podcast, host Stacey Gualandi sits down with Annette Logan-Parker, founder and Chief Advocacy & Innovation Officer of Cure 4 The Kids—Nevada's only accredited outpatient pediatric cancer and rare disease treatment center. Annette's journey is both professional and deeply personal. After 15 years as a nurse, she witnessed firsthand how patients were often treated as line items and how providers struggled within a system that didn't always prioritize care. But everything changed when her own son suffered a catastrophic football injury—with rare, post-injury complications—leading to years of surgeries and navigating healthcare from the patient side. That experience became the catalyst for creating Cure 4 The Kids—a place where excellence, access, compassion, and innovation come together. As Annette said, "Every child deserves access to care—and a cure."

The bill AB 703 which was signed into law by California Governor Gavin Newsom and which I talked about with Sahil Metha on my podcast a few weeks ago is just one of the important accomplishments that was led by the Society Of Emerging Leaders, which was co founded by Mary Kemp in 2022 and is under the direction of Kaitlyn Lee. This law now gives the voters in California the option to check off a box on their state tax form if they would like to donate to the cause of Pediatric Cancer. Mary and Kaitlyn will talk about many of the other programs that The Society For Emerging Leaders have started in California to benefit the cause of Pediatric Cancer.

Dr. Katerina Levy decided to write her book THE HEALING Garden while she was a resident at the Broward Medical Health Center in South Florida. This book was based on the Healing Garden that she saw while at that Medical Center and is full of strategies that work for kids who are trying to cope with being diagnosed with any form of Pediatric Cancer. Dr. Levy is still in the very early stages of her career as a Pediatric Psychologist.

Being treated terribly by her swimming coach and eventually belittled and made fun of by her teammates, Meghan Macantee was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in the fall of 2023, during her sophomore year at SUNY Potsdam where she was a member of the swimming team. Before her diagnosis, Meghan went to the emergency room 11 times where she was also treated poorly. In short, no one believed this wonderful young woman The fact that she was diagnosed with such a difficult form of Pediatric Cancer says it all. Meghan is now doing well health wise and giving back to others with her non-profit MEGHANSMISSIONINC. Meghan never received an apology from any of the people who so terribly wronged her. SHAME ON THEM.

Payton Alexander was living a healthy and normal life for a 14 year old until late in 2017 when she began experiencing symptoms that needed to be checked out. These symptoms led to her diagnosis of Ewings Sarcoma in January of 2018. Payton continued to try and live as good of a life as possible as she joined the Make A Wish and Little Warrior Foundations to try and help other patients suffering from Pediatric Cancer. Payton fought for 3 1/2 years with this Bone Cancer before her passing in November of 2021 when she was 19. Her mom Kim, who talked beautifully about her beloved daughter during our podcast, has been involved in the cause of Pediatric Cancer since Kim's passing, with her Payton Alexander Foundation. 

Sahil Mehta's older brother Ronil wanted to donate his brain to Stanford University after his passing from DIPG in 2018 in the hope that it would help another DIPG Victim in the future. Sahil took this request as his personal responsibility and then got so involved in the cause of Pediatric Cancer that he eventually worked with California Assemblyman Alex Lee to form the bill AB703, that would give the California State Taxpayers the option on their tax forms to check a box that would allow them to donate to the cause of Pediatric Cancer. This bill was fully formed and ready by July of 2025 to have Governor Gavin Newsom sign it into law. California is now only the 8th state in the country to have this provision on their tax form and Sahil is hoping that many other states will join in this effort to bring much more money into the cause of Pediatric Cancer.

In this episode of Pediatrics Now, two experts present from the Advancing Cancer Research for Latinos conference on why children—especially Hispanic and Latino youth—are being left behind in pediatric cancer care. Adam De Smith, PhD, University of Southern California, reviews genetic and ancestral contributors to increased acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) risk in Latino populations, highlighting IKZF1 and polygenic risk patterns, ancient origins of risk alleles, and ongoing efforts to expand genomic studies across Latin America. Jenny Ruiz, MD, University of Pittsburgh,  examines how language access and communication gaps affect pediatric cancer experiences and outcomes, presenting qualitative interviews and quantitative analyses showing higher acuity and ICU needs for Spanish-preferred patients, and calling for better interpreter services and multifaceted interventions.

Tony Garcia will talk about his early in life Pediatric Cancer battle which began in 1973 when he was diagnosed with Leukemia  when he was 2 1/2 years old. Tony's treatment finally ended nearly 10 years later in 1983 and since that time he has been doing as well as possible for the past 43 years, as a long term Pediatric Cancer survivor. Now 55 years old, Tony just published his first book (memoir) at the end of January called MY CHILDHOOD CUT SHORT. SURVIVING LEUKEMIA AND FINDING PURPOSE BEOND PAIN. Tony also is involved in supporting Pediatric Cancer patients through fundraising, volunteering, and advocacy work. 

Kendel Davy is a Founding Member of the Riley Rocks Memorial Foundation and Meghan Fessenden is the Director of Social Media and Marketing for the Foundation and is Riley's sister. Together they will talk about Riley who was diagnosed with Esthesioneuroblastoma which is a Pediatric Cancer of the Nasal Cavity when she 6 years old in 2013, and battled for 3 years before her passing on July 20th of 2016 when she was 9 years old. They will also talk about their Foundation which was started by Riley's parents Kamie and Todd.

What if pediatric cancer support did not have to mean choosing between the hospital and the holistic tools that can help your child stay strong?   In this episode, Corey and Christine sit down with Season Johnson (https://www.seasonjohnson.com/), functional practitioner, founder of the nonprofit Kick Cancer (https://kickcancermovement.org/), and owner of Biodynamic Wellness (https://biodynamicwellness.com/) in San Diego, to talk about one of the most terrifying realities a parent can face: a childhood cancer diagnosis. Season shares her family's story of walking her son through acute lymphoblastic leukemia, what she learned inside the conventional system, and the practical ways parents can support nutrition, detox pathways, and quality of life alongside treatment.   Join our Patreon community! https://www.patreon.com/c/ModernAncestralMamas What you get as a member of the MAM family: -- Full Downloadable Cookbooks to help you live your ancestral life -- Full Episodes AD-FREE -- Exclusive Post-Recording Conversations with Guests -- Private Community of Ancestral Mamas   Season opens up about the shock of diagnosis as a holistic mom, the emotional whiplash of hospital life, and why so many parents feel powerless, then shows exactly where parents can take their power back. From the foods she prioritized and the hospital food she refused, to gentle at home therapies that support the liver, lymph, appetite, and nausea, this conversation is packed with tangible tools and real hope without sugarcoating how hard this road can be.  

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Gabriella and Nicholas are 22 years old, and about to graduate from Purdue University and Indiana University respectively. This fall they will enter Medical School and will likely pursue careers in the medical field that will concentrate on Pediatric Cancer. Their cousin Maddox is now 14 years and well past his battle with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia but Maddox's sister Maia, who was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma in 2022 when she was 6 years old, passed away from this Bone Cancer on November 2nd of 2025. Gabriella and Nicholas will talk about what Maia went through during her cancer battle and will also talk about their amazing Strides For Sarcoma Non-Profit which they started after Maia relapsed, which shows both their dedication to Maia and their dedication to doing what they can to help eradicate the disease that Maia was forced to go through.

After their son Christopher passed away in 1969 from Rhabdomyosarcoma, Charles and Erma Millard decided to start a Charity organization that would help Pediatric cancer patients and their families. This organization was named Four Diamonds and Suzanne Graney, who has been its Executive Director for the past 15 years, will talk about this amazing organization which pays all expenses for each child that is treated at Penn State Health's Golisano Children's Hospital that are not covered by insurance. Four Diamonds has been partnering with Penn State and their Dance Marathon known as Thon which is the largest Student Run Philanthropy in the World, with all proceeds going to Golisano Children's Hospital to fight Pediatric Cancer.  

4 year old Ava Blazis woke up on the morning of March 11th 2023 with a very unusual pain in her abdomen which continued to get worse as the day wore on. Her mother Angela brought her to UMass Memorial Medical Center and 3 days later on March 14th, she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Angela and Ava then spent the next 65 days at Boston Children's Hospital while Ava was undergoing treatment. Meanwhile Angela's sister Johanna Annuziata got busy with helping to look after Ava's brother Michael, and also helping to start Team Ava, an unofficial Non-Profit, which has already raised over $300,000 to help in the cause of Pediatric Cancer. Ava is now 7 years old and is doing well physically as she has been in remission since May of 2025. 

In this episode of Ordinarily Extraordinary: Conversations with Women in STEM, host Kathy Nelson sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Mendes, a newly minted PhD and postdoctoral researcher whose work focuses on rare and aggressive pediatric cancers.Dr. Mendes recently completed her PhD at Duke University, where she spent over five years researching rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare childhood soft-tissue cancer. Her goal: identify new biological targets that could one day lead to better, more effective treatments for children. Kathy and Liz explore not only the science behind pediatric cancer research, but also the deeply human reasons that drive this work.What We Talk About in This EpisodeWhat pediatric sarcomas are—and why they're so challenging to treatLiz breaks down complex cancer biology in an approachable way, explaining how sarcomas differ from more common cancers and why their ability to “change form” makes them particularly dangerous.A non-traditional path into scienceFrom archaeology and zoology to teaching middle school math and science, Liz shares how curiosity—and not a straight line—ultimately led her to molecular biology, cancer research, and a PhD.Choosing pediatric cancer researchLiz explains why she decided to focus on rare childhood cancers that receive less funding but have devastating outcomes—and how personal experiences with cancer shaped that decision.Science close to the patientWe discuss the importance (and rarity) of researchers interacting directly with patients, families, and clinicians—and how those experiences fundamentally change how science is done.Life after the PhD: postdocs, fellowships, and moving to the UKLiz shares what it's like to finish a PhD, move countries, start a new research position, and navigate life and work during a major transition.Being your whole self in STEMFrom makeup and music to mental health and social media, Liz talks about rejecting outdated stereotypes of what scientists “should” look like—and why authenticity matters for the next generation.Representation, mentorship, and science communicationLiz reflects on why visibility matters, especially for women and first-generation students, and how platforms like social media can help make science more accessible and human.A Conversation About More Than ScienceThis episode goes beyond lab work and credentials. It's a candid conversation about grief, resilience, identity, and the responsibility scientists carry—not just to discovery, but to people. Liz's story is a powerful reminder that STEM careers don't require fitting into a mold—and that compassion belongs in science.If you enjoyed this episode:Rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyFollow or subscribe so you never miss an episodeShare with a friend, colleague, or student who might need this storyHave thoughts, questions, or guest suggestions?Email us at ordinarilyextraordinarypod@gmail.com or leave a voicemail on our website.Support the show

When Aaira Khan was in 5th grade in 2021 she and her classmates at their school in Sydney Australia received a letter from a Pediatric Cancer patient which talked about the Great Cycle Challenge. Aaira quickly decided to ride in this event to raise money for this patient and for the cause of Pediatric Cancer. Aaira has now ridden in this event each year since and in the fall of last year, started her own CAN CAMPAIGN fundraiser. This fundraiser focuses on people picking up empty cans, bringing them to get recycled, and taking the proceeds that they receive from each can and donating all of these proceeds for research, to help join in the fight for these kids who need as much help as possible as they fight their own cancer battels. This campaign was just started 3 months ago and has already raised $2600.

Among Katie Taylor's successes as a Certified Child Life Specialist over the past 15 years have been focusing on the parents of the children that are undergoing treatment for Pediatric Cancer, and empowering these parents to help get their children and adolescents ready for upcoming doctor's appointments, which can be a tricky proposition. Katie also established a Child Life Services program at a Newborn Intensive Care Unit with an astounding 80 beds to help these critically ill newborns. These accomplishments also go along with her being an Author, Public Speaker, and Podcast Host. Katie is an extremely busy and totally dedicated professional .

When Tony Suttles heard about 9 year old Haley Chandler being diagnosed with a form of Pediatric Cancer in 2020, he decided that he needed to do something to help this girl and their family. His solution was to start a Dirt Track Car Race and decided to call it FIGHT FOR A KID. His first race in 2024 attracted 80 cars on a track that normally had 30 cars race each weekend. By 2025, 106 cars entered and over $12,000 was raised in honor of kids like Haley who were going through their individual cancer battles. Tony and James Cumby, the father of 12 year old Brailynn Cumby who I spoke with on my Podcast on Christmas Day about her Ewings Sarcoma battle, will talk about this race and the expansion plans they have for it beginning in September when their next race is scheduled.  

Grace Eline was taught values by her mom Aubrey and her father Dan at a very early age, that giving to others was far more important than wanting for yourself. Well before she was diagnosed with the Germ Cell Cancer Germinoma which took place when Grace was 9 years old, Grace had decided that rather than accepting birthday gifts, she wanted people to donate to the cause of Pediatric Cancer.  Now 16 years and completely healthy, Grace started the WITH GRACE INITIATIVE as a non-profit to help other Pediatric Cancer Warriors and their families as they go through their cancer battles. This outstanding young woman attended the State of the Union when she was 10 years old as a Pediatric Cancer Representative,  and has continued her work to help others, practicing the lessons that she was taught by her parents over 10 years ago. 

Nya Chambless is now 16 years old, has been an actor since she was 4 years old, and is the now the Award Winning 16 year old Director of the Short Film MY GUARDIAN ANGEL. Nya and her father Jerry, who is the film's producer, will talk about this film which details the true story of the friendship between Nya and Teeja Johnson, who met in pre kindergarten, became best friends , and then Teeja passed away from Neuroblastoma just 5 months later. This film was introduced to Film Festivals across the country and beyond in April of 2025, has won multiple awards, and features topics such as Inclusion, Acceptance, Love, Friendship , the scrooge of Bullying, and awareness of Pediatric Cancer. If you would like to see information on this film click on this link. http://www.griefdialogues.com/my-guardian-angel/

Imagine being told your two-year-old has cancer — and realizing the system won't fight for them the way you will.This week, Season Johnson — medical advocate, holistic nutritionist, and founder of the KickCancer Movement — joins us to expose what really goes on inside the pediatric cancer system and how her son's diagnosis pushed her to fight back. She breaks down the pushback parents face when they ask questions, how hospitals respond to holistic support, the rights families are never told about, and the simple changes that can strengthen a child's body during treatment. We also get into toxins, food as medicine, and what true parental empowerment should actually look like.Thank you to our sponsors!TAYLOR DUKES WELLNESS: Use code "ALEXCLARK" for 10% off your purchaseZEBRA: Use code "ALEX" for 10% off any orderCALIFORNIA MOBILE ACUPUNCTUREARIZONA MOBILE ACUPUNCTURECOWBOY COLOSTRUM: Use code “ALEX” for 25% offJOOVV: Get an exclusive discount on your first red light therapy orderGEVITI: Use code "ALEX" to get 20% off your first purchaseOur Guest:Season Johnson, FNTP & IHP2Season's WebsiteSeason's IGSeason's FacebookBiodynamic Wellness WebsiteBiodynamic Wellness IGThrive Through Cancer WebsiteKickcancER WebsiteKickcancer IG

Medical imaging, like X-rays and CT scans, are routine, non-invasive and painless tools used by doctors to make diagnoses. But a recent study of about 4 million children published in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that the radiation exposure from imaging could pose a risk for pediatric cancer. John Yang speaks with Dr. Rebecca Smith-Bindman, the study’s lead author, to learn more. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy