What happens when a family is confronted with the unimaginable news of a child's cancer diagnosis? Tune in to hear Lisa and Chris Corvo's powerful journey as they recount the moment their son Christopher was diagnosed with leukemia at just four years old. Through their candid conversation, you'll learn about the emotional resilience required to navigate such challenging times and discover the critical role faith played in their strength and endurance.

Lisa and Chris share deeply personal anecdotes about balancing their raw emotions with the practical demands of caring for a critically ill child. They describe the heartbreak of their initial shock, the necessity of compartmentalizing feelings to remain a pillar of strength for their son, and the vital importance of their support system. Their story shines a light on how they managed to find hope and resilience in the darkest moments, with faith and community guiding them every step of the way.

This episode also reflects on life after childhood cancer, exploring how the Corvo family adapted to a 'new normal' and the ongoing impact of their journey. Lisa and Chris discuss the ways their marriage was both tested and strengthened, revealing how their shared goal of Christopher's well-being fortified their bond. Their story is a testament to enduring love and the incredible strength that families can muster when faced with life's toughest challenges. Join us for an inspiring discussion that underscores the power of faith, community, and unwavering support.

Imagine walking a tightrope where every step could mean the difference between hope and despair. On this episode of the D&G Show, we share our deeply personal journey through the trials of parenting a preteen facing the unimaginable challenge of childhood cancer. From the complex dynamics of preteen behavior compounded by aggressive cancer treatments to the emotional whirlwinds we navigated, we open up about our son’s physical and emotional battles. We shed light on late treatment effects, bullying, and the new health hurdles that emerged post-treatment, offering hard-earned insights and practical strategies for families in similar situations.

Witness the raw emotion of a mother's instinct to shelter her son from harm and the subsequent realization of the need to foster independence and resilience. Balancing essential support with encouraging self-sufficiency, we explore how our son’s aggressive post-surgery behavior tested our parental boundaries and standards. We delve into how we nurtured his growth through faith, character development, and maintaining our principles despite the stormy seas of medical trauma. Each step of our journey underlines the importance of learning from past experiences to become better parents and stronger individuals.

Join us as we highlight a father's spiritual and emotional struggles to protect his son while recognizing the necessity of growth through suffering. We discuss how balancing authoritative and nurturing parenting styles can be particularly challenging when dealing with a child's pain. Through sharing personal anecdotes, such as encouraging our son Isaac to walk unaided, we showcase the power of persistence, encouragement, and belief in one's abilities. We emphasize the critical role of community support and self-care, reminding parents that it's essential to take care of themselves to be the pillars of strength their children need. Listen in for a heartfelt recount of our journey and how it can bring hope to families facing similar battles.

How does an early encounter with mortality shape one's life? Join us for an incredibly moving episode where we mark Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with an interview featuring Chris Corvo, a leukemia survivor who was diagnosed at just four years old. Chris candidly recounts his journey from the initial signs of illness to the critical role his pediatrician played in diagnosing leukemia. You'll hear vivid memories of hospital stays at Saint Christopher's Hospital in Philadelphia and the emotional toll the battle took on him and his family. Chris's reflections remind us of the profound importance of hope and support for families going through similar struggles.

We delve into the lasting impact of childhood cancer on personality and long-term perspectives. Chris shares how his early brush with mortality instilled a heightened awareness of consequences and a more cautious approach to life compared to his peers. This chapter touches on subtle, lasting changes in behavior often noticed by family members, as well as the crucial role of medical professionals in navigating such diagnoses. You'll gain a nuanced understanding of how early trauma can shape one's worldview and behaviors, offering insights that resonate deeply with families facing similar challenges.

The conversation also explores the intricate dynamics within families during prolonged medical treatments. Chris opens up about his parents' roles, emphasizing his mother's constant emotional support and his father's efforts to maintain stability. He reflects on the delicate balance between prioritizing physical health and mental well-being, and how these experiences shape our appreciation for our parents. We also discuss Chris's risk-averse nature, influenced by his early illness, and the importance of maintaining normalcy. Chris's story champions the power of shared experiences and storytelling, underscoring how communities can provide solace and hope. Don't miss this heartfelt episode that underscores the enduring impact of childhood cancer on families and individuals.

https://youtu.be/kPso4d0uqLI?si=DHcMEN32XJyDPG6b