Children’s Hospice Week takes place from 19th to 26th May - a week dedicated to raising awareness for Children’s Hospice and Palliative care. 

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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. 

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Our parent workshops offer practical strategies to help you find you again.  

Our day long workshops are happening around Ireland again in 2024. To find out more and to read feedback from parents who attended in 2023, visitchildhoodcancer.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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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. 

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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. 

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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. 

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

In this episode, we are joined by Child and adolescent psychotherapist Debbie Cullinane to answer your questions about how to emotionally support your family.

At childhood cancer ireland we know there is  so much more to fighting cancer than the medical side and supporting our children to process their emotions can be a source of worry and concern for many parents. 

Here we talk about why play therapy is so important, how it can help children articulate and heal their trauma, how parents can ease their children’s worries, rage or ptsd through tangible actions, games and words. 

Plus how as parents it’s ok to not get it right all the time - and our parent workshops are here to support you. 

Our day long parent workshops are happening around Ireland this year.

To find out more about our free workshops, click 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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

We are delighted to bring you this episode with Olive O’Neil, clinical nurse specialist in Complementary Therapies with Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin. 

Thanks to the generosity of the Julie Wren Trust at the Children’s Health Foundation, the complimentary therapy service is available to patients and their parents/guardians offering a range of therapies to help patients and parents/guardians on the challenging journey of cancer treatment. To find out more visit https://www.childrenshealth.ie/julie-wren/

From aromatherapy to massage, reflexology to a safe space to find some peace Olive has an incredibly special role as she focuses her work on reducing stress in our bodies. Here we talk about why her work is so valuable to the minds and physical wellbeing of her patients on St. Johns Ward. 

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

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

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. 

***

This month marks one year since Sabrina, her husband and her family lost their Jack.

This episode is an act of courage as Sabrina, Jack’s mother talks to us about their short journey and of losing Jack to a rare and ultimately terminal brain cancer. 

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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

In this episode we meet brother + sister Kyle and Leah Casey.

In 2014 aged 11, Kyle was diagnosed with a brain tumour. 

Now 19 he and his sister Leah join us to talk about how this cancer journey - this fight, brought them closer. 

In the darkest of times these two young adults shine a light of solidarity and strength for all those who are fighting against childhood cancer right now. 

Gold Ribbon Tree

This Christmas, you can dedicate a message of remembrance or hope for our childhood cancer heroes by supporting our Gold Ribbon Tree. Please join us in remembering our loved ones who were taken too soon or send a message of love and hope to families who are still fighting and survivors who are dealing with the long-term effects of treatment. Visit goldribbontree.ie to take part.

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

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

This episode is a conversation with a dad who went through it all acting brave and strong but who now understands how important it is for men to be able to talk about the stress, trauma and grief they feel while fighting childhood cancer or any illness that threatens the wellbeing of their children.

Mark McQuillan's daughter Aoife was born prematurely weighing only 970gm. She showed the world how strong she was from day one.

As she turned 4 Aoife was diagnosed with a Wilm's tumour and their fight against childhood cancer began.

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

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is 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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

We open up this new season with a powerful conversation with mother of 4 Carly Ennis.

At just 6 weeks old her baby girl Aoife was diagnosed with a tumour on her optic nerve.

We talk about the impact the diagnosis had on her mental health, her career, their finances, her motherhood.

We talk about the weight of the trauma and her breakdown, how disruptive this new life was for her other children and her sources of support.

This episode will help other parents - this conversation is the reality of fighting childhood cancer. 

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

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is 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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

Clinical Psychologist Dr. Malie Coyne joins us to answer your mental health questions.

Here we talk about some of the resounding issues from parental anxiety to supporting siblings, to finding space for you and having difficult conversations. 

There is so much more going on for families fighting cancer than the cancer itself - and here we hope you can begin to find support for your mental health too. 

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

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is 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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

We are delighted to bring you this episode with Dr. Noelle Cullinan in collaboration with Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin.

As an oncologist, Dr. Noelle talks to us about her why, her passion and her unending pursuit to learn more about how we can stop cancer. 

Here we talk about the parents need to understand “why?”, her focus on genetic testing and the answers it can present for treatment decisions, what a privilege it is to do this work.

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is 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. 

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

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

In this episode we catch up with a truly inspiring guest from Season 1, Nikki Bradley.

listen back to ep1

Nikki fought cancer as a young adult 20 years ago and has shared how treatment has had a lasting impact on her physical and mental health.

While it has given her a powerful mindset it was caused her chronic pain.

Nikki’s resilience to secure her future led her to making the decision to have a rotationplasty earlier this year.

This is a massive surgery, an amputation and limb rotation where her knee joint is now her hip joint and her heel will anchor a prosthetic leg. 

A reminder of the impact that childhood cancer can have. 

A reminder of how this fight forms the adult. 

A reminder of why we must continue to learn how to support, treat and listen. 

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

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is 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.

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

Cancer Treatment is always evolving with new studies, methods and lifelines.

In this episode we are joined by 16 year old Alex McEleney and his rock of support - his mother Louisa. 

In March 2022 following a relapse, Alex was presented with a new opportunity - Car T Cell therapy, originally only available in the UK - but Alex became the first minor to have this innovative game changing treatment in Ireland. 

In this episode we talk about mental resilience, stamina and mindset. 

We talk about pain, anxiety and grief for the normality cancer stole. 

We talk about the wider impact on siblings, family and friends. 

And we talk about never ever giving up.

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

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is 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.

_

This show is hosted by Sinead O'Moore, produced by The Brand Story and sound produced by Alan Breslin.

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

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

In this episode with Crumlin's Our Lady's Hospital School Principal Feral McNamara, we talk about why maintaining a link to education is so important for children while they undergo care and treatment. 

Having a childhood continue allows patients to find comfort in the familiar.

While homework and tests might not be so important right now, Fergal explains how not leaving education behind can give children so much hope for the future. 

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

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is 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.

_

This show is hosted by Sinead O'Moore, produced by The Brand Story and sound produced by Alan Breslin.

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

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

A rare form of Cancer arrived uninvited into Orlaith's worlds just over 2 years ago.

A limp and a parents intuition led them towards tests, scans and a cancer diagnosis for their 3 year old boy. 

Here we talk about the waiting, the need to know what’s wrong, the relief when a team swoop in with a plan and loved ones swoop in with endless support. We talk about falling apart and about putting pieces back together again. 

And the hope that this chapter is over and only good days ahead.

_

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

#lightitupgold

Childhood Cancer Ireland is 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.

_

This show is hosted by Sinead O'Moore, produced by The Brand Story and sound produced by Alan Breslin.

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

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

As parents we hand over so much to the medical teams who care for our children.

Here we talk to oncologist and mother of two Dr. Sarah Currey about her role, her passion, the worst of days and what gives her relentless hope.

Childhood Cancer Foundation Ireland is 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 Foundation Ireland values every single donation.

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

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

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

Letting little people be little while fighting cancer is a powerful way of caring for their emotional needs.

Here we talk to Rebecca Walsh about how she uses play to support children fighting cancer on St. John's Ward in Crumlin Hospital.

_

Childhood Cancer Foundation Ireland is 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 Foundation Ireland values every single donation.

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

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

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

This episode celebrates the life of Max.

A little boy who was full of courage and who will never be forgotten.

And here, Max’s incredible mother Cathy joins us to support other parents in their grief.

Max was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma two weeks after his 2nd birthday in 2012.

For 6 years Max fought cancer but true to his name lived life to the max, before gently passing away. 

Through talking, honouring and connecting with other parents who understand her loss, Cathy has found a way through her grief and here, hopes to now support all those who need help. 

*********

Childhood Cancer Foundation Ireland is 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 Foundation Ireland values every single donation.

You can help by texting GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donating €4 or visitchildhoodcancer.iefor more.

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

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

Three years ago, Sinead's son Cillian was diagnosed with T-Cell lymphoblastic lymphoma.

Now aged 10 Cillian is finishing his treatment and beginning his next phase of his survivorship journey.

A new phase for the whole family.

Sinead speaks so powerfully about how the last 3 years have impacted her and her family.

And how she has battled and hoped to see the end of Cillians cancer treatment, but now that it's dawning near she is left with a lot more emotions than just relief. 

She now must begin to heal the trauma.

*********

Childhood Cancer Foundation Ireland is 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 Foundation Ireland values every single donation.

You can help by texting GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donating €4 or visitchildhoodcancer.iefor more.

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

Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

At 16 Nikki Bradley felt a lump which turned out to be Ewings Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.

Overnight Nikki's life and her family's life was changed forever.

Awarded 'Mosting Inspiring Person of the Year' by Outsider Magazine and the winner of one of Ten Outstanding Young People awards in Ireland, Nikki has inspired many through her own endeavours, her powerful business, The Motivational Factory,her advocacy work and awareness campaign, "Fighting Fit For Ewing’s"where she regularly partakes in physical challenges to highlight the importance of exercise for rehabilitation.As a cancer survivor Nikki celebrates life but must also overcome the physical & emotional legacy of her illness and treatment.

In this episode we go back to day one to talk about the impact on the whole family, on future plans, education, fertility, mobility and innocence.

And as we learn from Nikki in this episode, surviving cancer is also so much more than just remission.

*********

Childhood Cancer Foundation Ireland is 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 Foundation Ireland values every single donation.

You can help by texting GOLD to FIVE ZERO THREE ZERO ZERO and donating €4 or visitchildhoodcancer.iefor more.

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

Six children, adolescents and young adults are diagnosed with cancer every week in Ireland.

Created by Childhood Cancer Foundation Ireland, Gold Ribbon Conversations, is the podcast that explores the real experiences of childhood cancer. the fear, anxiety sadness and pain, but also light, hope, friendships and the community that exists here.

Hosted by Sinead O'Moore, this podcast shares personal stories, early symptoms, moments of diagnosis, the impact of treatment, survivorship and bereavement, as well as hearing from physical and emotional experts in this field.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and Gold Ribbon Conversations is just one way that Childhood Cancer Ireland are supporting families fighting cancer.

To donate text GOLD to 50300 or visitchildhoodcancerfoundation.iefor more.

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