Gone Too Soon: Baby Willow with Mammy Elaine O'Brien

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.

Just 18 days after being diagnosed with a malignant rhabdoid tumor, baby Willow passed away in June 2023 with her parents Elaine and Ross and close family members by her side. She was almost 5 months old. Gone Too Soon.

Willow was distressed and refusing her bottles she had previously loved.

Doctors assumed it was reflux and prescribed new formula.

But it was a tumour on her spinal cord at her neck which was found while on a family holiday in tenerife.

And what followed was an emergency to get home, to get operated on and to try everything they could. But tragically they had 18 days.

We talk about the signs and symptoms and the importance to advocate for your children. The moments Elaine didnt feel listened to. And the care that wrapped around them in Crumlin. But also very practical things like the importance of the small print on travel insurance, how they honour Willows life and the choices they made in the days they had with her.

You’ll find more information on Childhood Cancer Ireland’s bereavement supports on childhoodcancer.ie

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.

Text costs €4. Childhood Cancer Ireland will receive a minimum of €3.25. Service Provider: Fundraising Solutions. Helpline: 01 202 2810.

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