Jennifer Canvasser's world was shattered when she lost her son to Necrotizing Enterocolitis. Now, she's on a mission to raise awareness and support families facing the same struggles. But just as her advocacy began to gain momentum, a shocking discovery threatened to...
Episode 52 | Nichole’s Story – A son fighting cancer with help from My Special Aflac Duck and Child Life
Podcast Show Notes
(This episode was developed in partnership with Aflac. I was compensated for this episode, but all opinions are entirely my own. #ad)
In this episode, Katie Taylor, Certified Child Life Specialist talks about the importance of a community for caregivers. She interviews Nichole who shares what her son’s experience with cancer has been like. Sara Stewart, Child Life Specialist at Lurie Children’s Hospital discusses how she supports children and families during their cancer journey.
Nichole refers to My Special Aflac Duck as a “game changer” for her son during his second fight with cancer. My Special Aflac Duck gives kids with cancer the chance to find joy through play. From feeding and bathing the duck to singing with it and hearing its heartbeat, this interactive companion helps kids find a distraction from their diagnosis.
Listen to more stories and find more resources for children, professionals and families at Child Life On Call.
This podcast episode is featured in Aflac’s “Do Good” community newsletter, which spotlights insights, ideas and individuals making a difference in the pediatric cancer community. Visit Aflacchildhoodcancer.org to sign up for their newsletter and register for a My Special Aflac Duck. Authorized professionals at licensed health care facilities can order a duck free of charge to give to pediatric cancer patients, age 3+, to own forever, and use with them during their cancer care.
You Might Also Like…
197 | James’s Story – A son with a Congenital Heart Defect
James Robinson encountered an unexpected twist in his journey as a father to a child with a serious congenital heart defect. This change, while heart-wrenching, sparked a fire within him to create a meaningful and joy filled life for his son, Nadav. As James shares...
Episode 196 | Hannah Parson’s Story – Navigating the Complexities and Challenges of Special Needs Parenting
In the journey of special needs parenting, Hannah Parsons never anticipated the unexpected twist that would forever change her path. It all began with a missing bone in her son's arm, a revelation that plunged her into a world of uncertainty and endless specialist...