Gold Ribbon Conversations - The podcast that supports those fighting Childhood Cancer.

May is Brain Tumour Awareness Month.

Brain tumours are the second most common cause of cancer in children in Ireland.

Always speak to your GP about any unusual signs and symptoms your child is experiencing.

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. 

You’ll find more information on Childhood Cancer Ireland’s bereavement supports in the show notes and on childhoodcancer.ie

Orna Brennan was working a neurosurgical nurse in Temple Street on St. Gabriel's Ward (the brain tumour ward) when she became a mam and had her son Séimí in 2014. 

She said goodbye to all her colleagues assuming she wouldnt see them while on maternity leave but when Séimí was 2 months old, Orna noticed that he was making funny eye movements, ones she recognised from work. 

While in for an MRI Orna knew something was wrong because of how quickly everything was happening and they were told they found a tumour 

Shunts, surgeries, a stroke while in theatre with left side paralysis, then meningitis all before his first birthday and still 'Séimí bounced back each time.  

But in 2017 a new cancer in his cerebospinal fluid changed everything and with a little life of 3 years and 3 months, 'Séimí passed away at home with Orna and his dad Dave by his side. 

Séimí's fought for his whole life - but his cancer was not who he was.

As Orna takes us through - he was a big brother, a best pal, he brought sunshine to the ward with his 'Séimí shuffle and he was brave beyond measure and left his mark on their family and the team on St. Gabriels Ward. 

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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