Podcasts about pediatric cancer

When a child's cancer treatment threatens a child's ability to speak, eat, or breath, how does a team decide what to address first? On this episode of BackTable ENT, host Dr. Gopi Shah welcomes Dr. Anthony Sheyn, pediatric otolaryngologist at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital and St. Jude, and Amber Bonner, MS, CCC-SLP, acute care speech-language pathologist at Le Bonheur, to explore how a multidisciplinary team navigates the most challenging functional decisions in pediatric head and neck oncology. --- Get the BackTable apphttps://www.backtable.com/app --- Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction03:26 - Treatment Effects vs Tumor Effects06:30 - Swallow and Airway Evaluation Timing10:09 - Voice Assessment Protocols13:13 - Feeding Decisions and Vocal Fold Immobility17:23 - Vocal Fold Injection and Reinnervation21:36 - Tracheostomy Timing and Family Teaching26:08 - Complications and Swallowing Outcomes29:48 - FEES Collaboration and Voice Prognosis34:15 - Decannulation and Functional Outcomes37:40 - Closing Remarks --- More about this episode They discuss baseline preoperative evaluation, strategies to distinguish tumor effects from treatment complications, and the pivotal role of instrumental swallow studies. The discussion covers standardized voice assessments, decisions around feeding tubes and tracheostomy, early vocal fold interventions, and the realities of family education and post-op rehab. Through real-world examples and collaborative protocols, Dr. Sheyn and Amber Bonner share how teams can set children up for meaningful recovery and long-term survivorship, bringing hope to families facing the toughest cases. --- Resources Nagy P, Beckmann N, Cox S, Sheyn A. Management of Vocal Fold Paralysis and Dysphagia for Neurologic Malignancies in Children. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2019 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31215235/ ASHA Practice Portal: Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/resources/flexible-endoscopic-evaluation-of-swallowing/ ASHA Practice Portal: Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS / modified barium swallow)https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/resources/videofluoroscopic-swallow-study/ Zur KB et al. Pediatric Voice Handicap Index (pVHI): a new tool for evaluating pediatric dysphonia. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2007https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17046072/ Pediatric Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice, Part 2: A Protocol. J Speech Lang Hear Res. 2026 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42600142/ Care of Infants and Children with Tracheostomies: An Official American Thoracic Society Clinical Practice Guidelinehttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12618984/ --- BackTable ENT & Allergy is the go-to podcast for otolaryngologists, allergists, and head and neck surgeons. Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty. ► https://www.backtable.com/app

Tony Garcia is now a 43 year survivor of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and has become an activist and advocate for the cause of Pediatric Cancer. Tony is a second time podcast guest and he will update us on the past 6 months in which his book is now available at both St. Judes and MD Anderson for patients and visitor reading in both Spanish and English, and has had a very successful book signing which had lines out the door in his hometown of Brownsville, Texas, 

In this latest release of the Believe Big podcast, Ivelisse sits down with Jason Jacobi, whose son Luca was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of two after a sudden episode on a normal, summer day.Jason recounts the shock of that diagnosis and how his family's Christian faith carried them through it. He shares why they chose to pursue integrative therapies alongside chemotherapy, plus a favorite health tip along the way. The conversation also touches on the emotional and financial toll of a pediatric cancer diagnosis, and the community that showed up to help. It's a candid look at faith, family, and finding support in the hardest moments.Suggested Resources:Luca's Believe Big VideoBelieve Big Website"I Have Cancer, Now What?" - VideoAdditional Pediatric Cancer resourcesYour donations power our podcast's mission to support cancer patients with hope, insights, and resources. Every contribution fuels our ability to uplift and empower. Join us in making a lasting impact. Donate now!

Chief Medical Officer of Northwestern Medicine's Northwest region of hospitals Dr. Irfan Hafiz joins Bob Sirott to talk about a study that focuses on cancer in younger people related to alcohol, the risk of lung cancer in people who don’t smoke, and how to know if you’re eating enough whole grains. He also discusses how […]

Molecular Therapy Oncology has released a new special collection, Advancements in Pediatric Cancer Therapy. Listen in as guest editor Nirali Shah and Editor-in-Chief Timothy Cripe discuss articles in this special collection, which covers the history, current landscape, and future direction of pediatric cancer therapy. Music: 'Electric Dreams' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.auShow your support for ASGCT!: https://asgct.org/membership/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A mother's intuition helped save her son's life.When four-year-old Enzo developed persistent congestion, his mom, Krista Keller, knew something was wrong. But after visiting five doctors over two months, Enzo was repeatedly diagnosed with allergies and sinus infections.Krista even asked whether cancer could be causing his symptoms and was reassured that it wasn't.Then, after Enzo became increasingly sick and lethargic, Krista and her husband took him to a children's hospital. One scan revealed a large mass blocking his airway. Enzo was diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma, an aggressive pediatric blood cancer.As part of Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, we're sharing the voices and experiences of parents and families who know childhood cancer firsthand. In this episode of Game Over: c*ncer, hosts Dana Nichols and Val Solomon speak with Krista about the realities of delayed pediatric cancer diagnosis, trusting parental intuition, advocating for your child in the medical system, and the emotional trauma childhood cancer can leave behind long after treatment ends.Krista also shares how Enzo's diagnosis led her to create the Enzo and Me Pediatric Cancer Foundation from his hospital bedside. Today, the organization helps fund pediatric cancer research focused on some of the most underfunded and difficult-to-treat childhood cancers, including brain tumors, sarcomas, AML, neuroblastoma, and other cancers where better treatment options are desperately needed.This conversation explores:• Early signs and symptoms of pediatric cancer• Delayed childhood cancer diagnosis• Why parents must advocate when symptoms persist• Burkitt lymphoma in children• The emotional impact of childhood cancer• Pediatric cancer survivorship• Funding for childhood cancer research• Underfunded pediatric cancers• The experience of siblings and families during cancer treatment• How families can turn fear and grief into advocacy• The mission behind Enzo and Me Pediatric Cancer Foundation• Why innovative pediatric cancer treatments matterKrista's story is a reminder that parents know their children, persistent symptoms deserve answers, and research is essential to creating safer treatments and better outcomes for children with cancer.----------------------------------Learn more about the Enzo and Me Pediatric Cancer Foundation:EnzoAndMe.orgLearn more about Cannonball Kids' Cancer Foundation and support pediatric cancer research: cannonballkidscancer.org----------------------------------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/

Loretta Brooks was diagnosed with a Head and Neck Cancer known as Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma when she was 13 years old in 1991, causing her to miss almost all of her 8th grade school year. Loretta recovered well from that form of cancer and now has dedicated her life to advocacy work for Pediatric Cancer, with a particular emphasis on the subject of survivorship, which is always a difficult issue for former Pediatric cancer patients as they move into young adulthood and then adulthood. 

Stacey Wahlberg, president and co-founder of pediatric cancer foundation Cal’s Angels, joins Lisa Dent to kick off Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month and highlight her organization named after her stepson, Cal Sutter, which has invested $5 million in pediatric cancer research and millions more to help create the Cal's Angels Advanced Leukemia Clinical and Research Program […]

6 year old Miriam Koska was experiencing leg pain, abdominal pain, fevers, night sweats and fatigue in the fall of 2025 when she was diagnosed with an offshoot of Neuroblastoma known as Ganglioneuroblastoma. This form of Pediatric Cancer has a similar treatment protocol to the more well known Neuroblastoma. Miriam has been through difficult treatment but is doing as well as possible as she enters her next phase of treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.  

When standard care relies on decades-old treatments, taking action becomes a necessity. Host Brian Cleary has an intimate conversation with Jen and Josh McConnell—local real estate professionals and founders of The McConnell Foundation—as they open up about the personal story behind their foundation. When their son Bodhi was diagnosed with neuroblastoma at just five months old, their family's experience transformed into a passionate mission to fund pediatric cancer research. Tune in to hear about their journey, their impact, and how you can support their upcoming 5th Annual Shining Stars Gala on September 19th at Wild Dunes Resort. Jen and Josh shed light on a stark reality: only 4% of national cancer research funding goes toward children's cancer, leaving many young patients to rely on adult treatments developed back in the 1950s. Today, Bodhi is a thriving fourth-grader, and the McConnells are channeling their energy into supporting Dr. Jacqueline Kraveka's research lab at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital. Take Action & Support the Cause: Support pediatric cancer research and grab tickets for the September 19th Shining Stars Gala at Wild Dunes Resort by visiting The McConnell Foundation. Looking to buy or sell local coastal property while supporting local community leaders? Connect directly with Jen & Josh McConnell in Real Estate.

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.First up this week is Captain Bill Pappas from Playin Hookey Charters talking about the Mahi Mahi bite offshore!  Captain Bill provided one of the best fish taco recipes, “Tahi Macos” as they are known in the PHC community!  To get this recipe, go to LCBFR Visit Playin Hookey Online or call (757) 619-3530Next is the tournament recap with Mike Robey, with Hooked on Hope VB, telling us about the record breaking Spanish Mackerel Tournament, some incredible people making a REEL impact on the lives of families dealing with pediatric cancer.  To get involved, or questions about the event, call Mike today at 757-472-7212.  We also get the special opportunity to hear from Will Fox, sharing his own family's story with Pediatric Cancer, and what Hooked on Hope means to them. https://dfeetcancer.org/ and joining the conversation is an awesome local Charter Guide, Tripp Seed, who experienced his own loss from Cancer, founded AES Cancer Foundation, and between the 3 power houses, we have an incredible amount of fund raising going on to fight cancer and help find solutions for the future!   Sponsors:Gilbert EyecareDEKit Hampton RoadsSea TowEMS Endeck PVC DeckingSlipSki SolutionsKillerDock

On this week's episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Jordan Belous - founder and CEO of Whip Pediatric Cancer, an organization she launched at just sixteen years old that has since touched the lives of hundreds of children fighting cancer and their families. Jordan's story begins before she was old enough to understand it. When she was just two, her mom was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma – a rare cancer most often found in children. Against the odds, her mom survived. But that miracle opened Jordan's eyes to a world no child should have to know. Growing up, she befriended other kids fighting cancer – she played with them, laughed with them, prayed for them – and one by one, she lost them. At seven years old, she asked her parents through tears: why don't they save anyone from cancer? Their answer became the foundation of her life's work: they saved Mom, and that's why we have to help others. A few years later, sitting on the beach with her headphones in, Jordan had a simple idea: what if people did the Whip/Nae Nae to whip pediatric cancer? Her brother filmed a 14-second video of her dancing in the backyard, challenging friends and family to "dance or donate." Overnight, it went viral – reaching millions, drawing more than 7,000 participants from 47 countries, and raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for pediatric cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering. The dance faded. The mission didn't. Today, Whip Pediatric Cancer delivers care packages, makes patient visits, helps introduce safer treatment options in clinics through its Uni-Port Program, celebrates kids with Birthday Boxes and "Whipmas", makes Taylor Swift inspired dresses for children fighting cancer and their dolls, and provides financial support to families through the hardest fight of their lives – all fueled by a promise Jordan made to a little girl named Tessa, whose light lives on in the organization's gold-heart logo and in every child Jordan fights for. In this episode, you'll hear: ✨ How Jordan's mom's survival opened her eyes to the world of pediatric cancer; ✨ The heartbreaking question little Jordan asked – and the answer that shaped her life; ✨ The story behind the 14-second video that reached 47 countries and started a movement; ✨ How Jordan built a nonprofit as a sixteen-year-old and grew it into a forever mission; ✨ Whip Pediatric Cancer's programs – from care packages and patient visits to the Uni-Port Program; ✨ The promise to Tessa and the meaning behind the gold heart; ✨ Jordan's reflections on grief, purpose, and why she'll never stop fighting for children with cancer; ✨ And so much more! Jordan Belous is a 1 Girl Revolution! Listen/watch her story today! Connect with Whip Pediatric Cancer: Website: whippediatriccancer.org Instagram: @whippediatriccancer_ TikTok: @jorzzxox Facebook: facebook.com/WhipPediatricCancer Listen/Watch + Subscribe:Listen to and watch The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. ✨ Join the movement to empower women and girls - and change the world, one story at a time. For more information, visit 1GirlRevolution.com

After hearing the story of a friend that had a child who was diagnosed with a form of Pediatric Cancer, Mike Dechristopher got involved in this Pediatric Cancer cause in 2012 and started the Dylan Project. This Non-Profit now has helped hundreds of families in the New England area and brings joy to these kids by buying gifts each holiday season and delivering them to their homes, giving him the nickname of the Real Life Santa Claus, a nickname that is well deserved. 

Lainy Sharpe began to feel numbness in her legs, followed by paralysis when she was 12 years old in the summer of 2023. Her diagnosis was Mesenchymal Chondrosarcoma, which as rare of a diagnosis as it gets. Lainy fought as hard as possible before passing away in January of 2025 and was very much a part of the Pediatric Cancer community during her fight, which was proven by her winning the Children's Healthy Hero Award for her dedication to helping others at Banner Children's Hospital in Tucson, Arizona.

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 

The LINK Conference is officially happening.In this special episode of Game Over: c*ncer, Dana Nichols and Val Solomon announce the launch of the LINK Conference (Legacy • Impact • Networking • Knowledge), an innovative nonprofit conference built specifically for the pediatric cancer community.Created for pediatric cancer nonprofits, childhood cancer advocates, survivors, parents, legacy families, board members, executive directors, and nonprofit founders, LINK is designed to provide practical education, fundraising strategies, nonprofit leadership training, networking opportunities, and sustainable growth resources.During this conversation, Dana and Val explain: Why pediatric cancer families often feel called to start nonprofitsHow nonprofit collaboration can accelerate pediatric cancer researchCommon mistakes new nonprofit organizations makeFundraising best practices for pediatric cancer charitiesLeadership lessons for nonprofit foundersBuilding sustainable organizations beyond passion aloneThe importance of community, mentorship, and shared knowledgeWhat attendees can expect at the inaugural LINK Conference in OrlandoIf you're passionate about childhood cancer, nonprofit leadership, pediatric cancer research, fundraising, or creating meaningful impact after a cancer diagnosis, this episode offers valuable insight into building stronger organizations that can create lasting change.The inaugural LINK Conference takes place May 26–28, 2027 in Orlando, Florida.For the latest information about the LINK Conference, including when and how to register: cannonballkidscancer.org/link/----------------------------------Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/Learn more about Cannonball Kids' Cancer Foundation and support pediatric cancer research: cannonballkidscancer.org----------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

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/

 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.

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. 

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