The suggestion of a referral to palliative care is often scary and overwhelming. Families approach referrals in individual ways. Some avoid it at all costs, some openly embrace it and there is a vast spectrum of responses in between. Some families feel like a referral to palliative care signifies “giving up” on their child or foregoing further treatment and care. Others find value in hearing how palliative care can make a difference to support their child and family.

In this episode, we hear from three parents who reflect on how their family tackled a referral to palliative care, how they managed their fears and hesitations, and what they would like to share with other families about the experience.