Mom to triplet boys Lindsay Harrison joins me in this episode as she shares her son Joshua’s story of Ewings Sarcoma. 

Joshua and his brothers were all born prematurely, Joshua the smallest of them all. 

He has had to fight his whole life to be here and while his parents fought along side him with different challenges, nobody could have anticipated childhood cancer.

He was diagnosed with an aggressive form of the cancer after developing a rash when he was 9 and they were referred to a dermatologist when it wouldn’t clear up and needed a full year of chemotherapy treatment. 

They became 2 separate families with Lindsay and Joshua in hospital and Justin and their other two boys at home, work and school - with all 3 boys handling this new reality differently. 

We talk about the diagnosis, his treatment and how as an autistic child he found it all so overwhelming. 

We also talk about the supports and how as a family they coped, the value of peer to peer support  and the real impact on a parents nervous system during and most importantly after treatment ends. 

Childhood Cancer Ireland and our clinicial Psychologist Dr. Mairead Brennan can be a huge help to families.

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Text costs €4. Childhood Cancer Ireland will receive a minimum of €3.25. Service Provider: Fundraising Solutions. Helpline: 01 202 2810.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are joined today by a son and dad team, Rob and Conor Crabbe.

Conor is 13 and was diagnosed with ALL when he was 10 and we talk about looking forward to hopefully finishing treatment this summer, about how hard it's been to miss school, time with friends and never knowing when a temperature might hit. 

Conor has changed a lot over the last 3 years and he looks back on his beads of courage with pride and understanding how much he has gone through. 

We also hear his dad's perspective from symptoms to diagnosis to having to stay calm, positive and keeping the show firmly on the road in work, at home and in his relationship with Conor.

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Text costs €4. Childhood Cancer Ireland will receive a minimum of €3.25. Service Provider: Fundraising Solutions. Helpline: 01 202 2810.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I’m joined by Toni Bell Doyle as she shares her experience of being the big sister to her brother fighting childhood cancer.

Her brother Blaine is 17 and was first diagnosed at 12 - during covid which was difficult as a family of 6 who couldn’t visit and be together. 

Blaine is now being treated in an adult hospital and it's a different experience as they are all able to go in. 

Toni is the eldest and took on a very caring role and explains how everyone in the family experienced it differently. We talk about the impact of a diagnosis on siblings, the concern and worry they carry - how they miss their parents time and attention and how important it is that the wider network check on their wellbeing too 

But we also talk about how important they can be in bringing life and hope and a bit of healthy slagging back in to the family when things might feel dark.

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Text costs €4. Childhood Cancer Ireland will receive a minimum of €3.25. Service Provider: Fundraising Solutions. Helpline: 01 202 2810.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To begin our 2025 Season we have the remarkable Irish Paediatric Oncologist - Dr. Trish Scanlan

Trish is the Interim Director of Global Health at Childrens Health Ireland. 

She is the CEO of charity - “Their Lives Matter” a group of charities based in Tanzania, Ireland & UK with the united aim to reach every child in Tanzania who develops cancer. 

And she is Co Medical Director of Children not Numbers a multi disciplinary team of experts dedicated to improving the lives of children in Gaza through a comprehensive approach to health, safety, education, and rehabilitation. 

and most recently, Dr Trish as paediatric lead supported the evacuation of children to Ireland for healthcare.

We talk about what first brought her to Tanzania, how 10 children a day developed cancer with 9 out of 10 of these children losing their battle to Today when the survival rate is now 50%.

She shares her commitment to fighting for the paediatric care of children, and her optimism for what’s now possible when fighting childhood cancer.  

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Text costs €4. Childhood Cancer Ireland will receive a minimum of €3.25. Service Provider: Fundraising Solutions. Helpline: 01 202 2810.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the final episode of the year, I am joined by Eoin Cronly and his mother Lucy.  

Eoin is now 22 and was diagnosed with Leukaemia when he was 11 followed by, as he explains, every rare complication he could think of.

He missed out on a lot of school and was healthy enough to return just as lockdown happened.

But by understanding the accommodations he was entitled to, he sat the leaving cert and is now well on his way to finishing college - despite many health set backs and adverse side effects to steroid treatments.

Lucy was with him throughout and has trained as a parent peer supporter with Childhood Cancer Ireland to be able to offer support to other parents and is a huge advocate for sharing information and empathy. 

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses the loss of a child to cancer.

If you have been impacted by the loss of a child, you will find information, resources and support at Anam Cara, an organisation which supports parents after bereavement. They also have information for siblings, grandparents and other family members, which may be helpful.

Erin Tierney was only 22 and in her final year in college when she got pregnant with her first baby, Córa.  

At 7 months, unexpectedly, Córa was diagnosed with with a rare & aggressive embryonal tumour with multilayered rosettes (ETMR) in her brain and spinal cord. Córa lived for another 10 days. 

The shock and grief of this sudden diagnosis and loss shatterd Erin, Conor and their families. And in the years since have found the strength to keep going. Baby Florence arrived a couple of months ago and the Córa Rose Foundation has been set up to support bereaved parents. This is heartbreaking but Erin's courage and compassion is a gift to everyone who listens. 

You can read Córa's story here https://childhoodcancer.ie/story/cora-rose-tierney-donoghue/

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christmas is on it’s way - which can bring some light and hope but also some sorrow, grief and overwhelm for others. 

Joining me this week is Dr. Mairéad Brennan our Principal Clinical Psychologist and Director of Psychosocial Services at Childhood Cancer Ireland for an episode designed to support you over the next few weeks. 

We understand that If their child is sick at home or sick in hospital, normal Christmas plans can be thrown into chaos.

You may feel pressure or the want to keep up traditions and fight against it just not being possible this year.

Mairead offers some strategies to help you this Christmas.

We hope this episode offers you some compassion and support - for more please get in touch with us at info@childhoodcancer.ie

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I’m joined by Dr. Naomi Algeo, Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist in Cancer Services with St. James's Hospital

Dr. Naomi is also a Postdoctoral Researcher in Occupational Therapy at Trinity College Dublin and her clinical academic role is funded by the Irish Cancer Society.

Her research tries to identify the needs of adolescents and young adults as they return to school, education or work after cancer.

Naomi has a special interest in understanding the needs of leaving cert students and she is recruiting this age group to take part in a study to understand what impacts their return to education, work, friend groups and life again.

To take part in this study please contact info@childhoodcancer.ie

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode we are joined by Martina Quirke to talk about Sophie, her 9 year old daughter who was diagnosed with ALL, Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in January 2023.

And while this is a very open and raw conversation - it is a hopeful one as Sophie's cancer has very successful outcomes.

We talk about the physical but also the psycho social side of cancer at this age, the need for greater psychological support, navigating friendships, inclusion and a loss of identity. 

We talk about the fear, the anger, the stamina and the support it takes to find your way through.

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining us today is Paula Conlon, Community and Engagement Manager at Barretstown.

Paula has been working with Barretstown for 4 years, delivering their education and outreach programmes and here we discuss why it's so important to have age appropriate information shared to students, the benefits to the family experiencing childhood cancer and the students.

Every programme is unique, each script written to suit that circumstances and it's always age appropriate.

They talk about chemo, the freddie, the illness and focus on bravery.

We are delighted to showcase another example of amazing support available to families fighting childhood cancer.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I’m joined by Michelle and Daniel Burke as they share the long road their son Alex has walked since diagnosis of Neuroblastoma aged one and a half.

Alex is now 4 and after every type of treatment including chemo, radiation, stem cell, immunotherapy, surgery and a very specific medication to treat a mutation - Alex is doing really well. 

We talk about his initial symptoms and diagnosis, how Michelle was 30 weeks pregnant with a daughter to also care for when Alex was diagnosed, the years of treatments Alex went through and how last June the news was really not good - until suddenly, the good news they al had hoped for arrived.

We also talk about the supports along the way from Hand in Hand in Galway, play therapists and our Beads of Courage programme.

To help us to continue our services pleaservisit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We have a guest returning to Gold Ribbon Conversations this week.

We last spoke to Karl Corcoran about 18 months ago - as a young adult Karl had been diagnosed and beaten lymphoma but it had left a legacy of concerns for him as a young adult wanting to build a life for himself : fertility + career.

What we didn’t know then was that Karl would go on to be a dad and he would go on to find a role that aligned with his unique experience and talents.

This catch up episode is here to show us all that we don’t know what positives are around the corner and as KArl says, how important it is to just take it day by day, hour by hour and never let cancer define you. 

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May is Brain Tumour Awareness Month.

Brain tumours are the second most common cause of cancer in children in Ireland.

Always speak to your GP about any unusual signs and symptoms your child is experiencing.

This episode discusses the loss of a child to cancer.

While this conversation is essential for families who have experienced this grief, it may be understandably upsetting and so we encourage you to protect your emotional wellbeing. 

You’ll find more information on Childhood Cancer Ireland’s bereavement supports in the show notes and on childhoodcancer.ie

Orna Brennan was working a neurosurgical nurse in Temple Street on St. Gabriel's Ward (the brain tumour ward) when she became a mam and had her son Séimí in 2014. 

She said goodbye to all her colleagues assuming she wouldnt see them while on maternity leave but when Séimí was 2 months old, Orna noticed that he was making funny eye movements, ones she recognised from work. 

While in for an MRI Orna knew something was wrong because of how quickly everything was happening and they were told they found a tumour 

Shunts, surgeries, a stroke while in theatre with left side paralysis, then meningitis all before his first birthday and still 'Séimí bounced back each time.  

But in 2017 a new cancer in his cerebospinal fluid changed everything and with a little life of 3 years and 3 months, 'Séimí passed away at home with Orna and his dad Dave by his side. 

Séimí's fought for his whole life - but his cancer was not who he was.

As Orna takes us through - he was a big brother, a best pal, he brought sunshine to the ward with his 'Séimí shuffle and he was brave beyond measure and left his mark on their family and the team on St. Gabriels Ward. 

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Text costs €4. Childhood Cancer Ireland will receive a minimum of €3.25. Service Provider: Fundraising Solutions. Helpline: 01 202 2810.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses the loss of a child to cancer.

If you have been impacted by the loss of a child, you will find information, resources and support at Anam Cara, an organisation which supports parents after bereavement. They also have information for siblings, grandparents and other family members, which may be helpful.

Colleen McNally joins me as we remember her gorgeous boy Daragh.

Shortly after turning 11, Daragh became unwell. He was sick for five weeks and five days before he passed away. 

Daragh was an incredibly special little boy. Daragh’s autism was moderate to severe.

Here we talk about his autism, how he was always at the centre of family life, the shock of his acute illness and the legacy of grief they share as a family. 

It’s both beautiful and heartbreaking. And we thank Colleen for her words and for sharing Daragh’s story with us. 

https://childhoodcancer.ie/story/daragh-mcnally/ 

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Laura and Adrian Healy join me on this episode to talk about their 2 year old son Jamie.

Just 4 months before recording, Jamie was diagnosed with Leukaemia and their lives changed overnight.

With 3 older sisters at home, their normal busy chaotic family life needed endless support from family, friends, the team at St John’s ward and other charities like Barretstown and Aoibhinns Pink Tie. 

Laura and Adrian are still very much in shock, it’s very early days for them but Jamie is doing really well and this is an essential listen for any family who is newly diagnosed, scared, lonely and searching for other families going through the same. 

***

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses the loss of a child to cancer.

If you have been impacted by the loss of a child, you will find information, resources and support at Anam Cara, an organisation which supports parents after bereavement. They also have information for siblings, grandparents and other family members, which may be helpful.

***

Joining me today are the parents of Oscar Keogh and the founders of Oscar Kids a charity creating magic moments for those with a palliative care or terminal diagnosis.  - Yavanna  and Lar Keogh.

Oscar was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour, when he was 3 and a half and left this world with all his mischievous love on the 29th July 2019. 

During his illness his parents decided to live and find magic in everyday.

This was the beginning of helping other families to have these moments with their terminally ill children too.

Here we celebrate Oscar, and the legacy he has left through Oscars Kids, but we also talk about grief, about navigating this world after losing a child, how Yavanna and Lar found the motivation to turn this grief into support for others while also acknowledging the toll it takes as they heal their own hearts while witnessing so many other families go through the same. 

Grief is not linear. There is no formula.

And time, doesn’t necessarily heal.

But talking helps and that is what we did.

***

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’m joined by Juliet D'Alton to talk about her son Jacob and his diagnosis of LCH - Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis at just 3 months old. 

Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis is a rare myeloid neoplasm and is treated with chemotherapy by the team at St Johns Ward Crumlin. 

We talk about the long and anxious road to diagnosis for something so rare.

A parents instinct when turned away with another cream to try.

The impact on their mental health as parents.

And why it’s so important to accept help.

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I’m joined by Debbie Cullinane to discuss the power of your child's peer relationships.

Debbie is is a qualified child and adolescent psychotherapist and play therapist, mother of 2 and former primary school teacher.Together with Dr. Mairead Brennan  She facilitates our parent workshops.

No matter what age the child is, interacting with their peers can be tricky during/after treatment.

We talk about feeling disconnected, exclude or even  bullied and are there strategies to deal with it.

Debbie helps us understand  why peer relationships can be challenging and what makes them even more challenging during/after childhood cancer? 

And as parents how do we strike the balance between being supportive and too involved.

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trish Gleeson is the CNS for adolescent and young adult cancer in Galway University Hospital.

Nationally, AYA services are developing thanks to people like Trish who understand the needs and adaptions adolescents and young adults need while fighting cancer. 

This group of 16-24 year olds have unique needs, very different to paediatric but also different to adult.

We talk about teens and social inclusion, young adults and alcohol, fertility and education, 

We talk about the validity of needing to belong while also finding a language for what they are uniquely experiencing.  

And why things like chill out areas being funded by Childhood Cancer Ireland are so important to these AYA hospital centres.

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are proud to shine a light on the wonderful care given by LauraLynn Children's Hospice.

I’m joined by Liz O'Donoghue Assistant Director of Nursing at LauraLynn, Ireland's Children's Hospice.

Laura Lynn was founded by Jane and Brendan Mc Kenna in 2001 after their two daughters Laura (4) and Lynn (15) passed away from life limiting conditions, 20 months apart.

As Assistant director of Nursing, Liz joins us to talk about the hospice, the care and the respite it provides. We talk about palliative care and what that actually means for families. And above all - the value of hospice care - wrapping around the entire family.

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May is brain tumour awareness month.

Brain tumours are the second most common cause of cancer in children in Ireland.

Like a lot of childhood cancers, the symptoms can be varied and can be similar to other childhood illnesses.

Always speak to your GP about any unusual signs and symptoms your child is experiencing.  

In this episode I’m joined by 18 yr old Freya Fitzpatrick and her mum Emma. 

Freya was first diagnosed with medula-blastoma, a brain tumour in March 2018 when she was 12.

She has gone through surgery and numerous rounds of chemo and radiotherapy but her cancer returned in 2022.

We talk a lot about transitions.

The impact of a diagnosis at 12 and missing 1st year.

The impact of a second diagnosis at 16 when her independence should have been taking off. 

And the impact of transitioning out of crumlin and childrens care and being treated as an adult in the health system. 

With some honesty and words of wisdom for other teens going through this.

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I’m joined by financial advisor Eleanor Murnane.

Her son Theo was diagnosed with neuroblastoma when he was 14 months old.

He's now 6 and doing really well.

We talk about how challenging it is to figure out the financial hurdles of life while caring for a sick child and why she is now giving her time and financial advice for free to families fighting childhood cancer as part of a brand new initiative. 

Childhood Cancer Ireland has teamed up with the LIA (the centre of excellence for the education and development of financial professionals to provide information and advice to help families navigate their way through this difficult time. 

The financial support programme is free of charge, non judgemental and entirely confidential.

You’ll learn more in this episode - and by visiting childhoodcancer.ie

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining me today is Dr. Massa Jabra, a doctor in Syria.

Dr. Massa was appointed Childhood Cancer Advocate for SIOP this year.

SIOP is the International Society of Paediatric Oncology where her role is to spread awareness of childhood cancer and SIOP's work to the paediatric oncology community. 

Massa is also involved with BASMA (which means smile in Arabic), a Syrian organisation for children with cancer. She volunteers for psychosocial support for children. She believes that psychosocial support is as necessasry as medical treatment. 

We talk about what led her to become an oncologist, the challenges of care in a conflict zone, public awareness of signs and symptoms and how when survival is your top priority, healthcare becomes more challenging.

Dr. Massa's work is so necessary and exceptional and we thank her for joining us.

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May is Brain Tumour Awareness Month.

Brain tumours are the second most common cause of cancer in children in Ireland.

Like a lot of childhood cancers, the symptoms can be varied and can be similar to other childhood illnesses.

Always speak to your GP about any unusual signs and symptoms your child is experiencing.

Sinead Egan joins me in this episode to share her daughter Abigail’s story of a rare brain tumour diagnosis known as APXA just over a year ago. 

Abigail is now 8 and is doing really well after an extremely intense year of surgery in Temple Street and proton beam therapy in Manchester but as the tumour is rare its been difficult to find information and connect with other people with a similar diagnosis. 

We talk about the initial symptoms as Abigail began to drag her leg and how while visiting a physiotherapist the urgency of see a neurosurgeon became flagged, how everything began to move so quickly after this point with the family moving to Manchester for 7 weeks while trying to maintain as much normality as they could for Abigail and her younger brother Ben - and the support that has kept their family standing throughout this past year.

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Text costs €4. Childhood Cancer Ireland will receive a minimum of €3.25. Service Provider: Fundraising Solutions. Helpline: 01 202 2810.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Karen Dempsey is a celebrant and founder of Entheos a supportive service that can walk alongside families when marking an occasion or a loss.

When it comes to funerals, Karen wants to normalise the conversation.

She understands how important it is for people to know that they have choices.

They have permission to be creative and design a ceremony that is meaningful and right for the person they are cherishing. 

We talk about how as a nurse she recognised the need for a more human compassionate support to step in and hold people through their loss.

We talk about how ceremonies can be fun and bright and full of life,

why ceremonies are so good for our souls and

how she encourages anyone who missed out during covid to plan one now with the people who should have been there.

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses the loss of a child to cancer.

If you have been impacted by the loss of a child, you will find information, resources and support at Anam Cara, an organisation which supports parents after bereavement. They also have information for siblings, grandparents and other family members, which may be helpful.

Carmel O’Mahony gave birth to her first baby Zoe 2016

When Zoe was nearly 3 and a half, Carmel's maternal instinct told her that this new tiredness and vomiting was something more serious. 

It was ATRT, a very rare tumour with a 40% chance of survival. 

Surgery, chemo and proton therapy followed - but zoe relapsed in March 2020

They had a beautiful spring together as a family but Zoe’s fight would end quickly in June less than a year after diagnosis..

Zoe loved Crumlin and Crumlin loved Zoe.The whole corridor was lined with staff as a guard of honour. We talk about grief and spirit.

About her little life and the huge impact she made. 

And we talk about the courage it takes to continue after losing a child.

***

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation.

As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining me today is Aoife Moggan.

Aoife was diagnosed with a rare spinal cancer when she was 13.

6 Spinal surgeries and cancer treatment later - aoife is in her 30’s and survived childhood cancer but experiences longterm effects including chronic pain, reliance on high dose painkillers, loss of power in her leg and even a paralysed vocal chord. 

She now advocates for other survivors - for joined up thinking, access to care and late effects clinics, sharing medical records, a multidisciplinary team often just to get answers. This episode celebrates fighting cancer - but it also acknowledges that people expect you to be your old self - you expect you to be your old self but survivorship means so much more than that.

To get involved in team ireland - click here https://m.facebook.com/p/Team-Ireland-100068621974067/

https://beatcancer.eu/

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining me today is Jenny Forde to share Marlie’s story.

Marlie is a bright and happy little girl doing so well after going through so much. 

In 2021 when Marlie was 3 and a half she was diagnosed with a malignant Grade 4  brain tumour and endured several life saving surgeries and treatments. Jenny takes us thorugh her early symptoms, a mothers intuition, the impact on the wider family and the processing of the trauma after the fight is done. 

This is a beautiful and compassionate episode full of enduring gratitude and hope.

To join our parent workshops in 2024 - find out more on our website

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining me for our final episode of the year is Paediatric Anaesthetic Radiation Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist in St. Luke's Hospital, Rathgar - Edel Tevlin.

And it’s made even more poignant as we record on Edel’s final week in work before her retirement.

Edel was the first paediatric nurse in St. Luke's and will retire in December after a long nursing career and 8 years in this role. St. Luke's is the National Radiotherapy Centre. Approx 50% of children diagnosed with cancer will require radiotherapy - and those aged around 2-4 would need a general anaesthetic for every radiotherapy session because they have to stay still. 

We talk about her career and what brought her to St Lukes, how meaningful it is to connect with and support the families.

About the special play areas for children and the knitted crocheted blankets every child receives thanks to Friends of St Lukes.  

We would like to wish Edel every thanks for her service and a long and happy retirement. 

And to you all listening, we hope this podcast has supported you this year, thank you to our guests for sharing their personal stories and to you all listening for being here.

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by Laura & Stephen Reily as they share the journey they have been on since their 2 year old son Jude was diagnosed with Leukaemia just a few months ago in June 2023. 

We talk about the initial signs and symptoms, to the eventual diagnosis.

How much their world, their priorities and their perspective on life changed.

We talk about the moments of despair and the moments that lifted them up and gave them immeasurable hope. 

Jude has been through a lot - but he is on track and his cancer is highly treatable.

But this has been an unimaginable year for this family - who now look forward to Jude becoming a big brother, maintenance and one day ringing that bell.

To help us to continue our services please text GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I'm joined by Avril Deegan, a survivor of childhood cancer and now a 3rd year PDH student researching Childhood Leukaemia Survivorship from a psychological perspective. 

She is working with Prof. Owen Smith (who was her oncologist as a child) and Chiara Besani, Principal Clinical Psychologist in Crumlin to look at resilience, quality of life and social support at the end of treatment.

Avril is looking to speak to parents and young people who have successfully finished treatment for any type of leukaemia within the past 5 years. So, if you are a survivor over the age of 18, or the parent of a survivor who is under 18 and you’d like to take part in a short questionnaire, contact us at info@childhoodcancer.ie for more information. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses the loss of a young adult to cancer.

While this conversation is essential for families who have experienced this grief, it may be understandably upsetting and so we encourage you to protect your emotional wellbeing. 

***

Joining me this week is Emma Kate O'Dwyer as we remember her sister Lily May who lost her fight to cancer. 

Lily May was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma as a teen, and passed away as a young adult.

Emma Kate shares how as a family of siblings they all supported and cared for Lily May in their own individual way. The inspiration they took from how Lily May lived life and her final words “I’ll keep going” which they now all live by. 

We talk about grief, the dignity of passing away at home and processing her loss.

And how grateful they all are to have had Lily May as a sister. 

#GoneTooSoon

If you have been impacted by the loss of a child, you will find information, resources and support at Anam Cara, an organisation which supports parents after bereavement.

They also have information for siblings, grandparents and other family members, which may be helpful.

***

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation.

As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I’m joined by Dr. Mairead Brennan, senior clinical psychologist, cancer care west. Here we talk about the psychology of what's happening for parents - the physical and emotional effects - both during and after treatment. 

Dr. Mairead offers some practical tips to help you navigate this time and the impact on your emotional and physical relationship by validating different stages and giving you tips that might be helpful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our first episode of season 7, we are joined by Mark Garry.

Mark's daughter Tessa was diagnosed with neuroblastoma when she was 14 months old in 2018.

Now 6 and in school, Tessa is living a happy and normal life and mark is here to remind you to look to the future ahead. 

Mark talks about the treatment journey, the support of others, the difficult decision of treatment abroad and the health anxiety the can live on. 

He also talks about how he processed this challenging time as a husband, and dad.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just over 10 years ago, when Sarah O’Neill was 17 when she was diagnosed with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma.

Sarah’s life changed that day and while she did beat cancer here she reflects on the ways it changed the course of her life, her fears, her fertility, her strengths and her purpose as she dedicates her career to fitness and has joined the programme committee for our CAYAS conference - childhood, adolescent and young adult cancers and survivorship.

Sarah’s consultant said to her 'give me a year of your life and you'll be back to normal'. But in many ways she feels “normal” was never coming back. 

Here we talk about the impact of the diagnosis at her age, her concerns and frustrations around fertility preservation, early menopause and a health system not used to supporting women at her age. 

And why exercise has been so important for her mental health, her sense of control and her drive to use what she learned at 17 to help anyone who needs to get back on track with their life.

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Text costs €4. Childhood Cancer Ireland will receive a minimum of €3.25. Service Provider: Fundraising Solutions. Helpline: 01 202 2810.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our final episode this season, we are joined by Lucy Bray Professor of Child Health Literacy.

Childhood Cancer Ireland was first introduced to Lucy's work at the Children in Hospital Ireland annual lecture earlier this year.

Lucy looks at improving the experience for children and young people having procedures. 

Here we talk about the journey a patient goes on before, during and after treatment and she shares her expert knowledge on how we can support children throughout. 

This is a highly empathatic and supportive conversation that we hope can offer you guidance, empowerment and education.

September Marks Childhood Cancer Awareness month

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They say lightning never strikes twice - but in this story with my guest Noreen Doyle,  it does.

Norren's son James and daughter Kate were both diagnosed with cancer as children, 10 years apart.

James is now 18, after finishing is leaving cert and Kate is now 14 and they both thankfully have so much ahead to look forward to.

Noreen saw huge changes in terms of treatment during that time. When James was diagnosed he took part in a clinicial trial and when Kate was diagnosed they saw direct benefits as a result of that. Kate's treatment was shorter with fewer side effects. It was a completely different experience.

It was devastating, and Noreen shares how dark life felt at the time - but now she and her family have taken so many positives from their experience, they count themselves lucky and as you listen to this episode, her radiance and perspective will lift your spirits too. 

September Marks Childhood Cancer Awareness month

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode discusses the loss of a child to cancer.

While this conversation is essential for families who have experienced this grief, it may be understandably upsetting and so we encourage you to protect your emotional wellbeing. 

If you are impacted Anam Cara bereavement support can help.

September Marks Childhood Cancer Awareness month

And is also a poignant month for this weeks guest, Evelyn Neary whose son Cian was diagnosed in September 2018 and passed away in September 2019.

Cian’s life and legacy has inspired an incredible charity - Cian’s Kennels. 

Cian's Kennels enable families to bring their pets to kennels at CHI at Crumlin so that sick children can see their pet. 

This is an amazing story with nothing like Cian’s Kennels in the world.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to a new season of Gold Ribbon Conversations. 

Today I’m joined by Walter Kolsch Director of Systems Biology Ireland & Conway Institute, UCD & one of the founding members of Childhood Cancer Ireland Alan Pearson who are working together in what is the biggest investment in cancer research in Ireland.

It started out as purely research-focused but they recognised how important it was to include patients. The goal is to help people to live normal lives, to understand these diseases better so that they can design better treatments.

As a parent who has walked this path, Alan expresses what it means for patients and parents - and what it can mean for the future. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our final episode of the season we are so grateful to be joined by Sarah Barnes Aabo.

At two and half, her gorgeous lively little boy became noticeably unwell very quickly. 

Kian, was diagnosed with Leukemia and while this news changed everything.

Chemotherapy took its toll on Kian's immune system and left him vulnerable to a virus which took hold and he became paralysed from the neck down. 

Kian beat his cancer and he rang that bell - but his fight continues as he regains mobility, strength and life following a tracheostomy. 

Here we talk about holding on to hope, gratitude for every single good day, Kians 750 days in hospital and the months Sarah and her family were supported by the ronald McDonald house. 

None of us know what tomorrow brings but Sarah’s story will show you that on the darkest days you’re never alone. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May is Brain Tumour Awareness Month so in this season we bring you some stories focused on brain tumours with medical experts, the survivors and those we have sadly lost. 

Diagnosed at 10 with brain cancer - Dylan Smith Bresnahan is now 21 years old and has just finished second year in college. His story is one of overcoming childhood cancer, of it not defying you, how it has thought him many lessons, connected him with many amazing people, charities and experiences and we hope it can be a beacon of light for anyone on this journey. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May is Brain Tumour Awareness Month so in this season we bring you some stories focused on brain tumours with medical experts, the survivors and those we have sadly lost. 

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses the loss of a child to cancer.

While this conversation is essential for families who have experienced this grief, it may be understandably upsetting and so we encourage you to protect your emotional wellbeing. 

***

Laobhaise was 10 when she was diagnosed with a brain tumour and fought bravely for 7 years before sadly passing away in January 2021.

She was a powerhouse, an amazing, kind, positive child and here we talk to her mother Louise about their journey. 

We talk about palliative care and grief. Their bond and the love Laobhaise had for her younger brother. 

We talk about the network that supported them and life after cancer. 

And the legacy Laobhaise has left behind. 

GoneTooSoon

If you have been impacted by the loss of a child, you will find information, resources and support at Anam Cara, an organisation which supports parents after bereavement.

They also have information for siblings, grandparents and other family members, which may be helpful.

***

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation.

Six children, adolescents and young adults are diagnosed with cancer every week in Ireland and the Gold Ribbon which illuminates precious light, love, courage and compassion is a symbol of strength and solidarity for each and every one. 

As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May is Brain Tumour Awareness Month so in this season we bring you some stories focused on brain tumours with medical experts, the survivors and those we have sadly lost. 

Dr Taffy, Ire;ands 1st Female Paediatric Neurosurgeon is our first guest this season.

A mother of 3 we talk openly about why she is so committed to her work, to her patients and to fighting childhood cancer. 

We talk about the intensity of surgery, the team around her, how she has had to learn when to detach from emotion to become super focused on her skills as a surgeon while allowing her playful spirit to connect with the children under her care. 

We would like to thank Dr. Taffy and all at Children's Health Ireland at Temple Street for their time and the amazing life saving work she does. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our final episode of this season we are joined by Louise Quail to talk about her son Jimmie's cancer diagnosis in 2019 while she was working in fundraising for the charity, Ronald McDonald House.

When Jimmie was 3 he was diagnosed with a tumour in his left cheek, Louise was 16 weeks pregnant at the time & the impact of a serious childhood illness took on a new understanding. 

Here we talk about his chemo and proton treatment, travelling to Germany for 2 months, the life logistics that take over and their relationship as parents, carers and partners. Together with the families, charities and medical team, this episode is about how they fought this cancer diagnosis together.

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation.

Six children, adolescents and young adults are diagnosed with cancer every week in Ireland and the Gold Ribbon which illuminates precious light, love, courage and compassion is a symbol of strength and solidarity for each and every one. 

As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining me today is Ciara Ui Chonghaile to share her son Rian’s T-Cell Lymphoma's diagnosis in 2022. .

it was a rough start but once Rian responded really well to treatment he wanted to reintegrate into school and sports as much as he could - and 2 years on is now in maintenance - due to finish in April 2026. 

It’s been a heavy few years for this little family and while it’s not over yet they have so much hope whats ahead and are now looking to support others as Ciara has recently joined the Board of Childhood Cancer Ireland and as she lent on this podcast so much when Rian was diagnosed, today her story could help you. 

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation. As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation. 

Text costs €4. Childhood Cancer Ireland will receive a minimum of €3.25. Service Provider: Fundraising Solutions. Helpline: 01 202 2810.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we meet Connie Crehan, a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Paediatric Cancer in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda   

Connie cares for patients in a “shared care” hospital setting, a local unit like our lady of lourdes is a huge support for families who need regular care without the journeys to Crumlin. 

Here we talk about how passionately Connie cares for her patients, for her work, her care and about how the money raised by Childhood Cancer Ireland has been put to such good use for Connie and her paediatric cancer patients in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Drogheda.  

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation.

Six children, adolescents and young adults are diagnosed with cancer every week in Ireland and the Gold Ribbon which illuminates precious light, love, courage and compassion is a symbol of strength and solidarity for each and every one. 

As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode discusses the loss of a child to cancer.

While this conversation is essential for families who have experienced this grief - please protect your emotional wellbeing. 

Anam Cara Bereavement Support

In todays episode I'm joined by author of the Adam’s Cloud books Benji Bennett.

Benji's son Adam died of a brain tumour aged 4 in 2007. 

Through his grief Benji channeled his emotion into  creating the immensely successful and beautiful Adam's Cloud series of books as a way to encourage parents to spend quality time with their children. 

Here we talk about the legacy of grief. 

How as parents they changed. How they supported their children through loss. 

And how Benji made a very clear decision about how he wanted to live life after Adam.

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation.

Six children, adolescents and young adults are diagnosed with cancer every week in Ireland and the Gold Ribbon which illuminates precious light, love, courage and compassion is a symbol of strength and solidarity for each and every one. 

As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here I sit down with Eavann McCarthy as she shares her son Patrick’s fight with leukaemia. 

Patrick was diagnosed with leukaemia a month before his 4th birthday.

He's now 10 and in 4th class and doing really well.

Like many Eavann went into survival mode when Patrick and acknowledges the trauma it placed their young family in.

We talk about what support looks like, how the staff on St John’s Ward become like family, & how the vulnerability, isolation, anxiety and trauma often presents itself after treatment has ended. 

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation.

Six children, adolescents and young adults are diagnosed with cancer every week in Ireland and the Gold Ribbon which illuminates precious light, love, courage and compassion is a symbol of strength and solidarity for each and every one. 

As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our first episode of 2023 I am joined by 24 year old Karl Corcoran who was diagnosed with lymphoma two years ago.

As a young adult Karl fought cancer in Beaumont hospital after 12 months of undiagnosed pain.

As a young adult at the time, Karl felt in limbo between being treated to young to understand the gravity of the situation and too old to be supported through the reality. 

We talk about his road to diagnosis, the future consequences of treatment on his energy, fertility, identity and independence and about his mission to be a leading voice for young adults fighting cancer.

You can find out more about supports for adolescents and young adults at CanTeen.

Please text GOLD to 50300 and donate €4 or visit childhoodcancer.ie for more.

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is a charity founded by and led by parents of children with cancer who know that one of the greatest sources of strength for this fight, is conversation.

Six children, adolescents and young adults are diagnosed with cancer every week in Ireland and the Gold Ribbon which illuminates precious light, love, courage and compassion is a symbol of strength and solidarity for each and every one. 

As a non-government funded organisation, Childhood Cancer Ireland values every single donation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.