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  • S7:E114 Interview with Kiala, Pediatric Cancer Survivor Pt.1
    Mar 4 2026

    Title: The Untold Journey of Childhood Cancer Survivors:Insights from Kiala’s Story

    Introduction: In the realm of childhood cancer, the battledoes not end with treatment; it often marks the beginning of a lifelong journeyfilled with challenges. In this blog post, we delve into the poignant story of Kiala,a leukemia survivor, as she shares her experiences and the lasting effects ofher childhood diagnosis.

    Main Content:

    1. The Diagnosis and Initial Treatment

    Kiala 's journey began when she was just two years old,diagnosed with leukemia after a harrowing series of misdiagnoses. Her motherfaced skepticism from doctors who dismissed her concerns as mere hormonaldrama. However, a vigilant oncologist recognized the gravity of Kiala 'scondition and initiated the necessary treatment. This moment, albeit fraughtwith fear, was the first step toward Kiala 's survival.

    2. The Reality of Treatment

    During her treatment, Kiala underwent rigorous chemotherapyand a bone marrow transplant. Remarkably, she had only a 4% chance of survivalat one point. Her resilience shone through as she celebrated her 21sttransplant birthday recently, a testament to her courage and the life-savingcord blood donation from a stranger. However, the road was not without itshurdles; Kiala also faced numerous side effects that would continue to impacther long after treatment ended.

    3. The Long-Term Effects of Childhood Cancer

    Kiala emphasizes that many do not discuss the aftermath ofchildhood cancer. Once treatment concludes, survivors often deal with lastingside effects that can overshadow their lives. Kiala shared that she has had tonavigate a myriad of health issues, including a compromised immune system,dental problems, and the rare condition known as Postural OrthostaticTachycardia Syndrome (POTS). These challenges highlight the complex reality ofsurviving childhood cancer, where the battle often extends far beyond theinitial diagnosis.

    4. The Emotional and Psychological Impact

    Living as a childhood cancer survivor comes with emotionalburdens that are often overlooked. Kiala reflected on how her diagnosiscontinues to shape her life as an adult. She requires regular medicalappointments and sometimes struggles with feelings of fatigue and the fear ofsecondary cancers. Despite this, she finds solace in therapy and the support ofunderstanding friends and coworkers who help her navigate her challenges.

    5. The Need for Awareness and Support

    Kiala 's story sheds light on the importance of raisingawareness about the long-term effects of childhood cancer. Many survivors facea lack of understanding from medical professionals who may not recognize theongoing impact of early treatment. Educating healthcare providers and thecommunity about these challenges is crucial for providing the necessary supportto survivors as they transition into adulthood.

    Conclusion: Kiala 's journey as a childhood cancer survivoris a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. While the battleagainst cancer may seem over, the effects of treatment often linger, requiringongoing support and understanding. As we reflect on Kiala 's story, it'sessential to recognize the complexities of surviving childhood cancer andadvocate for greater awareness and resources for survivors.

    Key Takeaways:

    - Childhood cancer treatment can lead to lifelong healthchallenges.

    - Survivors often face emotional and psychological impactsthat require attention.

    - Awareness and education about the long-term effects ofchildhood cancer are vital for providing adequate support.

    Tags: childhood cancer, cancer survivor, leukemia, healthchallenges, long-term effects, cancer awareness, pediatric oncology, survivorstories

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    33 Min.
  • S7:E113 Interview with Becky Ennis Pt.2
    Feb 25 2026

    In this episode, Curtis Vallier and Becky Ennis share theirpersonal experiences with pediatric cancer, focusing on Becky's daughter Olivia's journey with leukemia. They discuss the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and the emotional toll on families. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support, advocacy, and the need for open discussions about the realities of childhood cancer. They also touch on the difficulties of fundraising and the need for awareness in the pediatric cancer community.


    "We need to push back."

    "It's okay to be scared."

    "This is a real issue."

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    37 Min.
  • S7:E112 Interview with Becky Ennis Pt.1
    Feb 18 2026

    In this episode, Curtis Vallier and Becky Ennis share theirpersonal experiences with pediatric cancer, focusing on Becky's daughter Olivia's journey with leukemia. They discuss the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and the emotional toll on families. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support, advocacy, and the need for open discussions about the realities of childhood cancer. They also touch on the difficulties of fundraising and the need for awareness in the pediatric cancer community.


    "We need to push back."

    "It's okay to be scared."

    "This is a real issue."

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    38 Min.
  • S7:E111 Interview with Adisyn Gray Pt.2
    Feb 11 2026

    ⁠TikTok blessedwithboth

    ⁠⁠Miracle Baby's Mama Blog⁠

    This conversation delves into the personal experiences offamilies dealing with Choroid Plexus Carcinoma (CPC), a rare type of brain cancer affecting children. Curtis Vallier shares his journey with his daughter Jaycee and introduces Adisyn Gray, who recounts her son Hudson's diagnosis and treatment. The discussion highlights the emotional challenges, misdiagnoses,and the varying quality of care in children's hospitals. Both families reflect on their experiences with medical professionals, the role of social workers, and the long-term effects of treatment. They also explore the complexities oftreatment protocols and the unique approach of St. Jude, emphasizing that while it offers hope, it is not the only option for families facing this devastating diagnosis. In this conversation, Adisyn Gray and Curtis Vallier discuss theharsh realities of pediatric cancer treatments, the emotional toll on families, and the importance of parental advocacy. They explore the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, the impact of fear and anxiety, and the need for better communication in healthcare. The discussion highlights the stigma surrounding childhood cancer, the role of faith, and the importance of community support. They also emphasize the need for improved pediatric cancer research and resources, sharing personal experiences and insights to raise awareness and advocate for change.

    Tags: #Choroid Plexus Carcinoma, #Childhood Cancer, Hudson's Story,#Medical Journey, #Pediatric Oncology, #St. Jude, #Treatment Protocols, #FamilyExperiences, #Emotional Toll, #Misdiagnosis, #pediatric cancer, #childhood cancer,#St. Jude, #parental advocacy, #cancer treatment, #emotional toll, #healthcarecommunication, #community support, #faith, #research, #awareness, #financial burden

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    1 Std. und 1 Min.
  • S7:E110 Interview with Adisyn Gray Pt.1
    Feb 4 2026

    TikTok blessedwithbothMiracle Baby's Mama Blog

    This conversation delves into the personal experiences offamilies dealing with Choroid Plexus Carcinoma (CPC), a rare type of brain cancer affecting children. Curtis Vallier shares his journey with his daughter Jaycee and introduces Adisyn Gray, who recounts her son Hudson's diagnosis and treatment. The discussion highlights the emotional challenges, misdiagnoses,and the varying quality of care in children's hospitals. Both families reflect on their experiences with medical professionals, the role of social workers, and the long-term effects of treatment. They also explore the complexities oftreatment protocols and the unique approach of St. Jude, emphasizing that while it offers hope, it is not the only option for families facing this devastating diagnosis. In this conversation, Adisyn Gray and Curtis Vallier discuss theharsh realities of pediatric cancer treatments, the emotional toll on families, and the importance of parental advocacy. They explore the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, the impact of fear and anxiety, and the need for better communication in healthcare. The discussion highlights the stigma surrounding childhood cancer, the role of faith, and the importance of community support. They also emphasize the need for improved pediatric cancer research and resources, sharing personal experiences and insights to raise awareness and advocate for change.

    Tags: #Choroid Plexus Carcinoma, #Childhood Cancer, Hudson's Story,#Medical Journey, #Pediatric Oncology, #St. Jude, #Treatment Protocols, #FamilyExperiences, #Emotional Toll, #Misdiagnosis, #pediatric cancer, #childhood cancer,#St. Jude, #parental advocacy,# cancer treatment, #emotional toll, #healthcarecommunication, #community support, #faith,# research, #awareness, #financial burden

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    1 Std. und 3 Min.
  • S7:E109 Interview with Madelynn, PT. 2
    Jan 28 2026

    Summary


    In this episode, Curtis Vallier speaks with Madelynn about her son Malakai's journey through pediatric cancer. They discuss the challenges faced by parents, the emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis, and the misconceptions surrounding treatment options and support systems. Madelynn shares her personal experiences, highlighting the importance of community support and the need for better awareness of the realities of childhood cancer. The conversation emphasizes the significance of sharing stories to foster understanding and connection among families affected by pediatric cancer.



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    32 Min.
  • S7:E108 Interview with Madelynn, PT.1
    Jan 21 2026

    Summary


    In this episode, Curtis Vallier speaks with Madelynn about her son Malakai's journey through pediatric cancer. They discuss the challenges faced by parents, the emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis, and the misconceptions surrounding treatment options and support systems. Madelynn shares her personal experiences, highlighting the importance of community support and the need for better awareness of the realities of childhood cancer. The conversation emphasizes the significance of sharing stories to foster understanding and connection among families affected by pediatric cancer.



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    47 Min.
  • S7:E107 Interview with Jordan Belous Pt.2
    Jan 14 2026


    ⁠Whip Pediatric Cancer | Funding Research & Bringing Hope to Kids⁠

    https://www.facebook.com/WhipPediatricCancer/

    ⁠Whip Pediatric Cancer (@whippediatriccancer_) • Instagram photos and videos⁠


    In this conversation, Curtis Vallier and Jordan Belousdiscuss the challenges and triumphs of advocating for pediatric cancer awareness and support. They explore the power of social media in raising awareness, the personal journey that led Jordan to found Whip Pediatric Cancer,and the various initiatives the organization undertakes to support families affected by childhood cancer. The discussion also highlights the importance of community support, the legacy of Tessa Prothros, and the ongoing need for fundingin pediatric cancer research, particularly for innovative treatments like CAR T-cell therapy. In this conversation, Curtis Vallier and Jordan Belous discuss the complexities of childhood cancer, the emotional toll on families, and theimportance of advocacy and awareness. They explore the challenges of funding and transparency in charitable donations, the need for targeted research, andthe impact of community support. The discussion highlights personal stories, the reality of survivor's guilt, and the power of intuition in understanding the signs of illness. They emphasize the importance of inspiring the next generation of advocates and making a difference in the lives of childrenaffected by cancer.

    Takeaways

    Social media can be a powerful tool for advocacy.

    Personal experiences often drive individuals to createchange.

    Whip Pediatric Cancer focuses on both research funding andquality of life for patients.

    Patient visits and care packages provide essential supportto families.

    Tessa Prothros' legacy continues to inspire advocacyefforts.

    The reality of childhood cancer is often overlooked by thegeneral public.

    Fundraising can be effective when children are involved inthe process.

    Community support is crucial for families dealing withpediatric cancer.

    Corporate donations can significantly impact nonprofitorganizations.

    The future of pediatric cancer treatment relies oninnovative research and funding. You're technically cured, but what does thatmean?

    The fight really starts after you're cancer free.

    You have no idea where your money is going in big charities.

    People don't do their research when donating toorganizations.

    Wisconsin has zero dollars dedicated to pediatric cancerresearch.

    The numbers for neuroblastoma are worse than ever.

    You're never too young to make a difference.

    Don't let outside noise diminish your passion.

    Survivor's guilt is a serious issue in the community.

    We want to save other kids from cancer.

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    39 Min.