On Deck Warrior Stories (Episode #13 w/ Dr. Linden Fornoff, Tanya Shute-Kadey, and Debbie Wagers )

Episode 13 of the SammyStrong Podcast brings together three special guests who each offer a unique professional perspective on the journey of pediatric brain cancer. Sarah sits down with pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Linden Fornoff, grief specialist Tanya Shute-Kadey, and child life specialist Debbie Wagers for a conversation about what children and families experience from diagnosis through treatment, recovery, grief, and everything in between. Each guest brings a different lens to the conversation. Dr. Fornoff shares the perspective of a surgeon caring for children and guiding families through some of the most difficult medical decisions of their lives. Tanya discusses grief, loss, and the emotional realities families may face throughout their journey. Debbie offers insight into the role of child life specialists and how they help children understand, process, and cope with frightening and unfamiliar experiences. Together, their perspectives provide a deeper look at the team of people who surround children and families affected by pediatric brain cancer—and the importance of caring for not only the child’s physical health, but the emotional well-being of the entire family. The SammyStrong Foundation is dedicated to supporting families affected by pediatric brain cancer and ensuring that no family has to face the journey alone.