Psychologist and heart-transplant recipient Dr. Brittany Clayborne shares how her own medical journey prepared her to guide her son Micah through sudden heart failure, an LVAD, and a life-saving transplant. She unpacks the family’s rare Danon’s disease diagnosis, post-transplant cancer (PTLD), and the everyday realities after transplant—meds, setbacks, and hope. You’ll learn Dr. Brittany’s BRAVE framework for hard moments, how rituals sustain connection during long hospital stays, and how Micah turned his experience into action with Transplant Teens and My Brave Journal. This conversation is packed with concrete tools, compassion, and the reminder that “hope is a team sport.” You do not want to miss this week's episode.

Featured moments:

• 00:00 — Why families need “somewhere to be brave.”
  
  

• 04:50 — Brittany’s peripartum cardiomyopathy, ICU wait, and LVAD.
  
  

• 10:05 — PTLD diagnosis and becoming the psychologist she needed.
  
  

• 12:50 — Micah’s chest pain → HCM crisis and transplant path.
  
  

• 24:00 — The BRAVE acronym families can use today.
  
  

• 44:00 — “Hope is a team sport.” Transplant Teens' vision.
  
  

Key takeaways:

• Use BRAVE in tough conversations: Breathe • Realize feelings • Accept them • Vent/Vulnerable with a trusted person • Elevate above it.
  
  

• Build predictable touchpoints (calls/visits) to anchor kids during long hospitalizations.
  
  

• Teens heal better with peers; if the group doesn’t exist yet, create it.
  
  

Resources mentioned:

• Transplant Teens (free peer support for grades 7–12)

• • Transplant Teens Instagram

• My Brave Journal (and transplant edition) by Micah — on Amazon.
  
  

• Contact Dr. Brittany: @DrBrittanySpeaks; offers limited free virtual sessions with referrals for ongoing care.
  
  

Support your child with step-by-step tips from certified child life specialists.
👉 Download the SupportSpot app (iOS & Android)

🌟 Special Thank You for Our Listeners! 🎉

We’re giving you free access to our most popular pediatric masterclasses — How to Prepare, Support, and Respond to Your Child During Shots, Blood Draws, and Vaccines and How to Use Comfort Positioning in Pediatrics — a $250 value, completely free! All you have to do is leave a written review of the Child Life On Call podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, then email a screenshot of your review to podcast@childlifeoncall.com. Once we receive it, you’ll get instant access to both courses — no strings attached. It’s our way of saying thank you for listening and helping more parents discover our show. 💛

The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.

In this episode of Child Life On Call, guest Maite Rodriguez shares her daughter Alessia’s inspiring journey with sickle cell disease (SCD)—from diagnosis at birth and painful crises to finding a cure through a pediatric bone marrow transplant at Memorial Sloan Kettering. Maite discusses the challenges of long-term treatments like hydroxyurea, the emotional toll of hospitalizations, and her family’s decision to pursue IVF to create a genetic match. She also introduces her bilingual children’s book, Just Like the Moon, which helps families explain sickle cell to children, siblings, and communities.

• 00:05 – Newborn diagnosis and the first sickle cell pain crisis
  
  

• 09:00 – Daily medications: penicillin, folic acid, and hydroxyurea
  
  

• 20:00 – How advocacy, research, and community support make a difference
  
  

• 25:00 – Considering a cure: bone marrow transplant and IVF journey
  
  

• 31:00 – Why Memorial Sloan Kettering was chosen for Alessia’s transplant
  
  

• 41:00 – Life after transplant: cured of sickle cell, dancing in the rain
  
  

• 48:00 – Writing Just Like the Moon, a bilingual sickle cell book for kids
  
  

• Just Like the Moon, a book written by Maite Rodriguez

• Sickle Cell 101

• Memorial Sloan Kettering Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant Program

• Sickle Cell Consortium – Resources & Advocacy

• Ronald McDonald House Charities – family lodging during hospital care
  
  

Support your child with step-by-step tips from certified child life specialists.
👉 Download the SupportSpot app (iOS & Android)

🌟 Special Thank You for Our Listeners! 🎉

We’re giving you free access to our most popular pediatric masterclasses — How to Prepare, Support, and Respond to Your Child During Shots, Blood Draws, and Vaccines and How to Use Comfort Positioning in Pediatrics — a $250 value, completely free! All you have to do is leave a written review of the Child Life On Call podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, then email a screenshot of your review to podcast@childlifeoncall.com. Once we receive it, you’ll get instant access to both courses — no strings attached. It’s our way of saying thank you for listening and helping more parents discover our show. 💛

The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.

From “colic” that never eased to four pages of confirmed allergens, Susanna Peace Lovell recounts the first years of parenting her daughter, Arizona—years marked by nonstop crying, full-body eczema, and relentless advocacy. When a hypoallergenic formula finally brought relief around 18–19 months, Susanna could breathe—and begin reframing motherhood with compassion for her child and herself. She shares practical allergy survival tips (from table toppers to EpiPens), how autism diagnosis informed self-advocacy, and why community through We Are Brave Together mattered. This conversation serves as a guidepost for any parent navigating complex medical needs while preserving joy at home. You won’t want to miss Katie and Susanna’s conversation.

Episode Timestamps:

• [03:45] Signs of Severe Food Allergies in Infants – From nonstop crying to full-body eczema, Susanna shares the earliest symptoms Arizona showed.
  
  

• [08:15] How Doctors Diagnosed Multiple Severe Food Allergies – The long journey to four pages of allergy results and what that meant for daily life.
  
  

• [18:30] Switching to Hypoallergenic Formula – How finding the right formula finally brought relief after months of suffering.
  
  

• [22:45] Tips for Parents Navigating Severe Food Allergies – Compassion, picky eating strategies, and surviving dining out with kids.
  
  

• [26:50] Teaching Kids Self-Advocacy with Food Allergies – How Arizona learned to protect herself and why autism shaped that process.
  
  

• [30:40] Finding Support for Parents of Kids with Severe Allergies – The role of We Are Brave Together and community in surviving medical parenthood.

Resources mentioned:

• We Are Brave Together (caregiver community Jessica Patay founded).
  
  

• Susanna’s Website
  
  

• Follow Susanna on Instagram
  
  

🎉 Special Thank You for Our Listeners! 🎉

We’re giving you free access to our most popular pediatric masterclasses — How to Prepare, Support, and Respond to Your Child During Shots, Blood Draws, and Vaccines and How to Use Comfort Positioning in Pediatrics — a $250 value, completely free! All you have to do is leave a written review of the Child Life On Call podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, then email a screenshot of your review to podcast@childlifeoncall.com. Once we receive it, you’ll get instant access to both courses — no strings attached. It’s our way of saying thank you for listening and helping more parents discover our show. 💛

The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.

In this episode, Dr. Allison Mell—pediatric PT and founder of Tots on Target—breaks down how therapy for kids doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. She shares real talk about what progress actually looks like, why play is so powerful, and how parents can weave therapy into everyday life without adding stress. From NICU graduates to toddlers finding their stride, Allison reminds us that tiny wins build up to big milestones. Her approachable, down-to-earth advice helps parents feel supported, capable, and ready to advocate for their child’s needs.

Resources mentioned:

• Tots on Target Website

• Tots on Target Instagram Page

🎉 Special Thank You for Our Listeners! 🎉

We’re giving you free access to our most popular pediatric masterclasses — How to Prepare, Support, and Respond to Your Child During Shots, Blood Draws, and Vaccines and How to Use Comfort Positioning in Pediatrics — a $250 value, completely free! All you have to do is leave a written review of the Child Life On Call podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, then email a screenshot of your review to podcast@childlifeoncall.com. Once we receive it, you’ll get instant access to both courses — no strings attached. It’s our way of saying thank you for listening and helping more parents discover our show. 💛

The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.

Keywords: pediatric physical therapy, Tots on Target, Dr. Allison Mell, child development milestones, medically complex children, parent advocacy, play-based therapy, NICU graduates, torticollis, comfort positioning, early intervention, family-centered care, Child Life On Call

When Camryn’s fearless 4-year-old suddenly became anxious, her gut said something deeper was wrong. Multiple “all clear” evaluations followed—until a post-virus crash at age 6 that led to a diagnosis under the PANS/PANDAS umbrella (autoimmune encephalitis). Camryn shares how a steadfast pediatrician, early referrals, and balancing clinical guidance with peer support helped her daughter reclaim everyday life—right down to summer swim league. She also opens up about protecting her child’s privacy, supporting siblings, starting trauma therapy, and building margin for joy. This is a masterclass in parental advocacy, nervous-system care, and creating a trusted circle around your child. Y

Resources mentioned

• PANDAS Parents (national Facebook community) — peer support and practical tips.
  
  

• ASPIRE (clinical education & navigation for PANS/PANDAS).
  
  

• MomBrain.com — anonymous Q&A platform for moms (Camryn is co-founder).
  
  

• School-based supports (counselor, principal, buddy programs) for siblings.

🎉 Special Thank You for Our Listeners! 🎉

We’re giving you free access to our most popular pediatric masterclasses — How to Prepare, Support, and Respond to Your Child During Shots, Blood Draws, and Vaccines and How to Use Comfort Positioning in Pediatrics — a $250 value, completely free! All you have to do is leave a written review of the Child Life On Call podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, then email a screenshot of your review to podcast@childlifeoncall.com. Once we receive it, you’ll get instant access to both courses — no strings attached. It’s our way of saying thank you for listening and helping more parents discover our show. 💛

The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.

Keywords
PANDAS, PANS, autoimmune encephalitis, pediatric anxiety, OCD in kids, basal ganglia inflammation, post-strep, family advocacy, sibling support, pediatrician partnership, trauma therapy, child life, SupportSpot, MomBrain, Austin families

In this reposted episode, Courtney shares her journey of receiving her daughter Annie’s Trisomy 21 diagnosis, navigating the NICU, and walking through open-heart surgery complicated by pulmonary hypertension. She talks about the power of community, the unexpected strength she discovered in herself, and how vulnerability and advocacy have shaped her motherhood. Courtney reminds us that love, connection, and collective wisdom can carry families through the hardest seasons while celebrating Annie’s resilient and joyful spirit.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Annie Louise Foundation – A resource hub for parents and caregivers

• Follow Courtney on Instagram

• Read Courtney's most recent blog post about how the Annie Louise Foundation helped with Central Texas Flood relief in Kerrville, TX

🎉 Special Thank You for Our Listeners! 🎉

We’re giving you free access to our most popular pediatric masterclasses — How to Prepare, Support, and Respond to Your Child During Shots, Blood Draws, and Vaccines and How to Use Comfort Positioning in Pediatrics — a $250 value, completely free! All you have to do is leave a written review of the Child Life On Call podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, then email a screenshot of your review to podcast@childlifeoncall.com. Once we receive it, you’ll get instant access to both courses — no strings attached. It’s our way of saying thank you for listening and helping more parents discover our show. 💛

Keywords: Down Syndrome, Trisomy 21, congenital heart defect, VSD, pulmonary hypertension, NICU, ECMO, parent advocacy, child life, Spoony Threads, SupportSpot

The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, epilepsy in children, and autism parenting—in this powerful episode, women’s health coach and mom of four, Erin Trier, shares her family’s eight-year journey to finally receiving a TSC diagnosis for her son, Brendan. She talks about the early seizures, navigating a rare genetic disorder, and managing the added challenges of autism and uncontrolled epilepsy. Erin opens up about the emotional and mental toll, the power of vulnerability, and the practical organization systems that help her family thrive—including her genius laundry strategy. She also shares why self-care, community connection, and support are essential for parents raising a medically complex child. You will not want to miss this episode. Resources Mentioned: Erin’s website: www.erintrier.com Instagram Podcast: Empowered in Health 🎉 Special Thank You for Our Listeners! 🎉 We’re giving you free access to our most popular pediatric masterclasses — How to Prepare, Support, and Respond to Your Child During Shots, Blood Draws, and Vaccines and How to Use Comfort Positioning in Pediatrics — a $250 value, completely free! All you have to do is leave a written review of the Child Life On Call podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, then email a screenshot of your review to podcast@childlifeoncall.com. Once we receive it, you’ll get instant access to both courses — no strings attached. It’s our way of saying thank you for listening and helping more parents discover our show. 💛 Keywords: Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, TSC diagnosis story, rare genetic disorder, seizure disorder, epilepsy in children, autism parenting, medically complex child, women’s health coach, parenting tips, self-care for parents, family organization, SupportSpot app, parent mental health, coping strategies, special needs parenting, rare disease awareness.

The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.