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

Connect with Gavin and Cindy

Instagram

Website

Whether you are a parent or professional, we want you to join our community. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Parents, download our free parent starter kit.

When you download our starter kit, you’ll learn how to:

• Give medicine to your child without it becoming a wrestling match
• Prepare your child (and yourself) for a shot so they can feel less anxious
• Create and use a coping plan for any medical appointment or procedure

The first sign of sniffles, or worse, shouldn’t send you into a tailspin. Feel confident in your role as a parent and advocate, no matter what medical situation you’re facing.

Child life specialists, get affordable PDUs on-demand here.

Shop for your CLOC gear here.

Catch up with CLOC on Instagram, Facebook and meet Katie for a Q+A every Monday at 10 AM CST.

 

Further episodes of Child Life On Call: Parents of children with an illness or medical condition share their stories with a child life specialist

Further podcasts by Katie Taylor, Certified Child Life Specialist

Website of Katie Taylor, Certified Child Life Specialist