“My baby went from fussy to lifeless in hours—by the time we reached the PICU, they said he might have had six hours to live.” In this episode, TikTok Influencer and Medical Mom Marlee Brandon, a pediatric speech-language pathologist turned full-time mom, shares the...
Episode 151 – Gavin + Cindy’s Story – A son with Osteosarcoma
Podcast Show Notes
Cindy and Gavin share about their son Ryan and his battle with Osteosarcoma. Cindy shares about how she created a Case for Smiles to help her cope with Ryan’s diagnosis. Gavin brings the perspective of dad and professional and shares how he started a new position at the Hospital his son was being treated at the very same day as a diagnosis. They openly share the ups and downs of their journey and how Ryan’s legacy lives on today.
[3:16] Introducing their family
[5;34] A bike accident lead to the shocking diagnosis
[6:26] Going into remission
[7:00] Gavin begins a new job as a CFO the same day they got the Osteosarcoma diagnosis
[8:30] Diagnosis day
[9:30] Bedside Manner of Pediatrician
[10:26] Balance between hospital and home
[13:32] Being open with Ryan during his treatment
[15:38] Ryan learned how to golf during his treatment period
[18:03] Cindy shares about how she made a pillowcase for Ryan to make each stay more comfortable
[19:50] Finding out Ryan was terminal
[21:30] Case of Smiles being formed after a Martha Stewart Contest entry
[23:00] Coping with the new reality and loss
[25:20] Using Ryan’s experience to help cope with a cancer diagnosis
[28:40] Finding your advocate voice
[30:00] The joy in Ryan’s pranks
[32:32] Learning the ropes quickly
[33:05] Evolution of care
[35:15] Smiling and laugh through the hard times
[39:02] Just Sibs Program
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