When your mum has cancer: A kid’s conversation

Outrun Cancer

In this episode, we connect with Caroline and Mark’s kids as we continue the conversations on how to share a cancer diagnosis with children. To more deeply understand what their journey and feelings are like.

In this episode, Ryan, Connor, Tyler and Lachie reflect back to what it was like 10 years ago when they were all gathered together on the couch as “mum and dad needed to talk with them”. Tyler shares that she thought the siblings “were in trouble” for something and how unexpected the news was. Hear the real feelings be discussed amongst the four of them.

Caroline shared with Vanessa that she learnt a lot of “new things” listening to the conversation. From listening to the feelings to the coping mechanisms and what was maybe done well and what was tough. The hope is that we continue to listen and learn from these real stories. I thank Ryan, Connor, Tyler and Lachie for their bravery to share their feelings in such an open and honest way

In this episode you’ll hear:

• How Caroline and Mark broke the news to their four children and the reactions each of them had
• How the kids each found different ways to cope with the news, and navigate decisions such as traveling abroad on exchange programs was managed
• How relationships with friends at school became different
• About how seeing physical changes happening brings a sense of anxiety
• Reflection in hindsight of how stronger support of each other might have helped and raising the question of how to make sibling conversations and support easier in times of crisis.

About Caroline’s Kids Ryan, Connor, Tyler and Lachie

Caroline and Mark’s four children live in New Zealand. At the time their mother was diagnosed they were all in school ranging from 8 to 14 years. All have moved away from home now but regularly return home to their mum and dad’s couch and kitchen table in Tamahere which is just outside of Hamilton in the North Island of New Zealand. The Steer children are incredibly sporty and very committed to charity and community. Conner, Tyler and Lachie have been part of the run streak craziness. Vanessa and Caroline humbly say thank you for all they do to support us.

If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of yourself listening to the episode on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories, and tag me @voicesofcancer.

Connect with Vanessa:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voicesofcancer/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-oshima-she-her-37b51113/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weoutruncancer