Today I speak with Alex, who was 7 yrs old when his sister was diagnosed with leukemia 20 years ago. We discuss the profound impact of childhood experiences related to a sibling's cancer diagnosis and dive deep into themes of loneliness, emotional neglect, and the long-term effects on mental health. Alex shares his personal journey of navigating his sister's illness, the feelings of being sidelined, and the eventual realization of the need for support and therapy. Our discussion highlights the importance of recognizing the sibling experience in the context of family illness and the lasting emotional scars that can result from such experiences. Alex shares his journey of confronting deep-seated anger related to his sister's cancer diagnosis and the impact it had on his family dynamics. Through therapy, he navigates feelings of abandonment and the complexities of healing relationships with his parents. Our discussion highlights the importance of communication, understanding, and the efforts made to mend familial bonds. Alex's current work in oncology reflects his personal experiences, driving his passion for cancer research and patient advocacy.

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