The Lighthouse Podcast

In this heartfelt episode, Chris Woodruff and Christy Richards sit down with Marissa Bondurant, a writer, mother of four, and passionate childhood cancer advocate. Marissa shares the powerful story of her family's journey through childhood cancer, which led her to discover a new purpose: using her experiences to encourage and bring gospel hope to others.
Together, they discuss Marissa’s transition from writing updates for family and friends to creating a ministry that reaches caregivers and cancer families worldwide. They also learn about her book Who Cares for You?, her inspiring blog, and the 31-Day Prayer Guide for Caregivers, which are resources designed to comfort and strengthen those walking through difficult seasons. 
Marissa also shares practical advice for staying connected, instructions for accessing her writing and guides, and a deeply encouraging message for anyone facing challenges: God sees you and will use your story for good.

In this heartfelt episode of The Lighthouse Podcast, hosts Chris Woodruff and Christy Richards sit down with Amy Jo Osborn, co-founder of the Austin Hatcher Foundation. Amy Jo shares the deeply personal journey that led her and her husband, Jim, to start the foundation after the loss of their first-born son, Austin, to cancer. What began as unimaginable grief grew into a mission to help other families navigate life after a childhood cancer diagnosis. Their goal is to see families thrive—not merely survive—through holistic care and support.

Amy Jo opens up about the early days of the Austin Hatcher Foundation, from its beginnings in 2006 to now serving over 90,000 children and families across 24 states and 42 hospitals. She and the hosts explore the critical need for mental health resources for families touched by pediatric cancer. Listeners will gain insight into the foundation’s unique events, such as the Petit Le Mans weekend, which offers moments of healing through diversionary therapy.

The episode wraps with practical advice for families seeking support, as Amy Jo explains how they can get involved with the Austin Hatcher Foundation. With Lighthouse Family Retreat embedded in her own story, Amy Jo reflects on how both organizations have become intertwined in her life. Tune in to hear her inspiring message of purpose born from pain, and discover ways to connect with the resources that can make a lasting impact.

In this episode, we dive into the world of music therapy with Austin, a passionate advocate for the healing power of music. We discuss how music impacts children and teens and explore its therapeutic potential. Austin shares insights from his background in music and explains how the Sing Me A Story Foundation empowers children to tell their stories through song.

Join us as we learn how the foundation works, including how kids of all ages can create their own songs, the genres they explore, and the powerful stories that emerge. Austin also shares one of his favorite stories and offers advice on how families can get involved.

Whether you’re a parent looking to inspire your children or simply interested in the transformative power of music, this episode is full of heartwarming moments and practical steps to make music a part of your life.

To connect with Sing Me a Story, head over to their website: https://singmeastory.org

Happy Childhood Cancer Awareness Month! We have gone GOLD this month, and we hope you are, too. We love wearing our first-ever childhood cancer awareness t-shirt. This September, we are sharing all sides of childhood cancer, from medical staff to family stories to incredible non-profits and so much more!

In this episode, we sit down with Mariah Forster Olson to explore her inspiring cancer journey and her vital work with the Coalition Against Childhood Cancer (CAC2). Our conversation begins with a heartfelt reflection on her personal battle with cancer, highlighting the encouragement she drew from seeing her parents lead the family with strength and grace. We also discuss how Mariah has maintained a positive attitude throughout her journey and how this resilience continues to shape her approach to life today.

As the conversation unfolds, Mariah shares the origins of CAC2, detailing the needs and challenges that led to its formation. We dive into her involvement with the organization, uncovering the joys and triumphs she's experienced along the way. The episode also introduces listeners to the CAC2 Toolkit, a valuable resource designed to support families and professionals in the childhood cancer community. Mariah explains who the toolkit is for, how to use it effectively, and the various categories of information it covers, leaving listeners with a powerful sense of hope and practical tools to navigate the challenges of childhood cancer.

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast! We are so glad you are joining us for the August episode. In this episode, we have a candid conversation with Juanita Prada, who opens up about their extraordinary journey from a young cancer patient to a resilient advocate. Juanita walked through Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) childhood cancer starting at age 10. She has been cancer-free since 2008 when she completed treatment at the age of 15.

We start the episode by getting to know Juanita beyond the diagnosis, exploring a lesser-known facet of their life. We then move into the pivotal moments of her cancer journey, discussing the initial diagnosis during childhood, the challenging relapse as a teenager, and the stark differences in treatment experiences across these stages. Juanita sheds light on the often overlooked delayed side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, sharing personal encounters with uncommon side effects. We also dive into her struggles in school and the sacrifices they made to graduate alongside their peers.

Last but not least, we hear about Juanita's ministry - "Be Hold Be Gold." She shares her dreams and hopes for the future of this inspiring initiative and highlights some defining moments that have shaped their journey. She also offers valuable advice for parents on preparing their children for potential delayed side effects of cancer treatment. Juanita reflects on the evolution of her faith and relationship with God throughout her journey, encouraging those affected by childhood cancer. We conclude with ways our listeners can support this mission and contribute to raising awareness and support for childhood cancer survivors.

In this episode, we sit down with Bryce Knight, who shares their compelling journey of resilience and strength through a family's unexpected challenges. Bryce opens up about her upbringing, family dynamics, and personal interests and provides a glimpse into her life before and after 2010.

The conversation moves into the pivotal year when their family faced a significant upheaval, leading to their brother Brody's hospitalization. Bryce recounts the emotional impact of being separated from their siblings and staying with different family members during this turbulent period.

We explore valuable advice for parents on supporting siblings during such trials and discuss the importance of transparent and age-appropriate conversations. Bryce reflects on how having a deeper understanding of Brody's situation could have shaped their experience and offers insights for siblings on navigating similar journeys.

The episode also highlights the profound impact of Lighthouse, a beacon of support for Bryce and her family. From their first retreat to a transformative summer serving on the Lighthouse summer staff, Bryce shares cherished memories and the joy of giving back to a community that once uplifted them.

Join us for an inspiring and moving discussion that underscores the power of family, resilience, and the incredible bonds formed through shared challenges!

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast! Today, we have the privilege of sharing the heartfelt journey of Nakiso and her family's battle with a challenging diagnosis. In October 2022, Nakiso began experiencing unusual fatigue, nausea, and a persistent stomachache. Despite multiple visits to her pediatrician and urgent care, it wasn't until a blood test at the emergency room on November 6th, 2022, that they finally received a diagnosis.

This life-altering news led to Nakiso switching to virtual schooling, a difficult transition as she missed her friends and struggled to keep up with her studies, even with the school's support. We delve into the severe side effects of her chemotherapy, including a terrifying episode of septic shock and painful pancreatitis. Despite these hardships, Nakiso's incredible resilience inspires us all. In addition, Tawana, Nakiso's older sibling, was incredible at caring for everything else at home and the younger siblings, while Spiwe and Dryden took care of Nakiso.

Join us as we explore the highs and lows of this journey, offering insights, support, and hope to families facing similar challenges.

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Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast! Last September, we had the privilege of attending a poignant gathering in Washington, D.C., called "CureFest." Amidst the inspiring atmosphere, we had the honor of encountering remarkable individuals and organizations. Today, we're thrilled to share a heartfelt conversation with Leia Hunt, one of the extraordinary souls we met at CureFest.

Leia's journey began at the tender age of 2 1/2 when she was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma. She had a total of 26 surgeries and relapsed during her two-year cancer journey. Inspired by her own family's journey, Leia founded Leia's Kids to offer support and hope to families facing similar challenges. She discusses the creation of journals and the heartwarming children’s book "Princess Marygold," which aimed to bring light to young cancer warriors' lives. 

As we explore the long-term effects of chemotherapy, Leia sheds light on what parents can expect and how they can best support their children through any challenges that may arise. She also shares the evolution of her faith throughout their journey and offers words of encouragement to those affected by childhood cancer.

You will walk away from this episode being so encouraged by Leia's voice for childhood cancer and find inspiration in her message of finding beauty and normalcy in every circumstance.

We are so thrilled to be starting season 8 of the Lighthouse Podcast! First and Foremost, we wanted to make you aware that our posting schedule is changing slightly. For this season, new episodes will drop on the first Tuesday of each month. We encourage you to go back and listen to the helpful episodes from Season 1 to 7.  

Now, let us introduce you to our guests for the first episode of this season - high school sweethearts - Zach and Karli Lansdell. The Lansdell’s currently reside in Rome, GA, and have one outdoor-loving, huge heart, and all-boy named Levi. Their journey with childhood cancer began when Levi was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia on August 10, 2022.

The journey was long and intense, as they spent over 200 days in the hospital. They did amazing things to make the hospital feel like home and keep Levi comfortable and happy.

They have now moved into the post-treatment plan, and that brings its own challenges. Through their journey, they learned to advocate with gut feelings, ask for help, and be honest with your mental health. Both Zach and Karli leave us with some encouraging advice that can be taken to heart right away.

Today, we're joined by Dan and Kate Hutson. Dan & Kate are the parents to 4 beautiful children, Audrey, Elijah, Jack & Greta. In August of 2021, their lives took an unexpected turn when their son, Elijah, began displaying unexplained bruising all over his body within a remarkably short span. On their 8th wedding anniversary, August 3, 2021, Elijah received the diagnosis of ALL, marked by Philadelphia chromosomes—a moment that reshaped their family's trajectory.

In this candid conversation, they emphasize the crucial role of advocating for your family's needs within the hospital setting, highlighting parents' unique understanding of their child's needs. Their story underlines the incredible blessing of support from their family, friends, church community, and the invaluable aid provided by their child life specialist. For parents embarking on a similar journey, they share valuable advice and wisdom born from their own experiences.

They proudly refer to themselves as "Team Hutson," fully aware that the Lord continues to walk alongside them in this journey. Their most heartfelt prayer is to share their testimony and draw others closer to Jesus. All glory to God.

Tune in to this heartfelt conversation of faith, resilience, and insights on navigating the storm as a family.

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Welcome back to The Lighthouse Family Podcast as we welcome the incredible Mary Ann Massolio. As a mother of two, Jay and Kathleen, Mary Ann wears multiple hats—serving as the Executive Director of the 1Voice Foundation and dedicating herself to Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Social Work in Tampa Bay for almost three decades.

Mary Ann's journey took a profound turn when her son, Jay, was diagnosed with 4th stage non-Hodgkin's lymphoma at the tender age of 9. In the midst of his brave battle, Jay tragically passed away just six months into treatment. This heartbreaking experience not only reshaped Mary Ann's professional trajectory but also sparked a deep resolve within her. In honor of Jay's memory, Mary Ann established the first school in the United States exclusively for children battling cancer.

Her vast firsthand understanding—from navigating her own child's treatment to supporting families through bereavement—grants her a wealth of wisdom about the intricate dynamics of family experiences during these trying times. Tune in as Mary Ann shares her remarkable story and the impactful work she continues to carry out in memory of her son.

Welcome back to The Lighthouse Family Podcast! Today, we're privileged to welcome Chalene Skinner as our guest. Her journey is truly extraordinary, centered around her daughter, Easton. Easton's path began at birth, born with Down Syndrome, and took a significant turn at the age of 3 with a diagnosis of ALL (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia), charting an unexpected journey for their family.

Life took a challenging turn when Easton was 5, and Chalene and her husband went through a divorce. For Chalene, this period was an immensely trying time, navigating her daughter's cancer journey while facing the emotional strains of separation.

In her pursuit of healing and self-expression, Chalene turned to writing. Her book, "6 Rounds to Resilience," offers profound insights from her experiences. This book provides invaluable insights to those facing challenging times. Its simplicity and practicality make it a valuable resource for anyone navigating life's challenges. Join us as we delve into Chalene's inspiring story and explore the invaluable wisdom she shares in "6 Rounds to Resilience."

Welcome to the Lighthouse Family Podcast. In this episode, we're honored to have Jamie Perkins as our guest. Jamie and her husband, Tommy, are loving parents to two amazing children, Griffin (14) and Julia (12).

Their lives took an unforeseen turn when their son, Griffin, was diagnosed with Optic Nerve Glioma just before third grade. Fast forward to 2021, when the tumor's size doubled, requiring immediate treatment. Jamie delves into the deeply personal experience of caring for Griffin, navigating the challenging adjustments, and reshaping their reality post-treatment, all while witnessing the remarkable strengthening of faith and family bonds.

In our conversation, Jamie bravely discusses Griffin's journey from five stable years without any changes in his tumor to the sudden doubling in size. She candidly reflects on the challenge of overcoming the fear of the tumor potentially changing again, highlighting the difficulty in navigating this new reality without succumbing to constant fear.

She further delves into the post-treatment phase, highlighting the unforeseen challenges of readjusting to home life and the importance of not rushing through the process. Amidst the challenges, Jamie reflects on the growth in her faith, offering words of wisdom and advice to families stepping into life after treatment.

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Welcome to another touching episode of the Lighthouse Podcast. Today, we are honored to have Brindley Drake as our guest. Brindley and her husband, Dillon, share a beautiful family with two amazing boys, Dalton and Cooper. Last fall, just before school started, their lives took an unexpected turn when Cooper began experiencing severe leg pain. A visit to the emergency room unveiled a heartbreaking diagnosis of cancer, altering the course of their lives forever. Throughout their journey, a profound faith in God has been the guiding force, providing hope and strength.

In this episode, we delve into the Drake family's story, exploring the powerful impact of faith in navigating life's challenges. Brindley shares touching moments, including Dalton's heartfelt reaction to Cooper's leukemia diagnosis and the invaluable support they received from a child life therapist and therapy dog, Sabel. The family's relocation to Lubbock, TX, becomes a focal point, prompting reflections on divine guidance.

Brindley graciously imparts advice to other families facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of accepting help when offered.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation that showcases the resilience and faith of the Drake family. We hope you find inspiration and encouragement in today's episode of the Lighthouse Podcast.

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Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast. In this episode, we have the privilege of talking with Dr. Susan Conradsen, a dedicated mother of two children, Annalise and Daken. Beyond her role as a mother, Dr. Conradsen is a licensed clinical psychologist and currently serves as an Associate Professor of Psychology, Director of the Signature Experience Program, and the Director of the Women's and Gender Studies Program at Berry College in Rome, GA.

Dr. Conradsen's journey in the field of pediatric oncology began during her graduate school years when she specialized in pediatric consults within hospitals. This experience provided her with profound insights into the psychological aspects, family dynamics, and essential resources required for families embarking on the challenging path of childhood cancer.

In this episode, Dr. Conradsen shares invaluable insights with parents, particularly in the context of supporting siblings. Her wealth of expertise and real-world experience equips families with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of the journey. Dr. Conradsen emphasizes the importance of maintaining open communication and fostering a sense of inclusion for siblings. We hope the wisdom and guidance shared in this episode will be as beneficial to you as it was to us.

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In this episode of The Lighthouse Family Podcast, we have the privilege of hearing from Dustin and Tatiana Rose. Together, they have a beautiful son, Max (4yrs old). Max was 3 1/2 years old when their world was forever changed.

Max's initial medical concern, suspected scoliosis, led to an MRI revealing a Ganglioneuroblastoma mass near his spine, a diagnosis they never saw coming. Their path forward was uncertain, as they sought opinions from multiple oncologists, each offering different treatment options for this rare tumor's challenging location.

Their story takes a turn as they find a surgeon in New York who holds the confidence to remove the tumor without the need for chemotherapy, leading them on a journey made possible by the incredible organization Flight of Hope. The 10-hour surgery, while successful, marked the beginning of a new set of challenges. Max's development of scoliosis and the necessity for a full upper-body cast add to the complexities they face as he copes with limited mobility and non-verbal communication.

Throughout their story, a common theme emerges - the journey through and beyond childhood cancer is a rollercoaster of emotions, and understanding one another's feelings is paramount. The aftermath of being "cancer-free" can prove just as challenging as treatment, emphasizing the significance of the unwavering support of family and friends.

Join us as we dive deep into this extraordinary story, and witness the incredible strength and resilience of Dustin, Tatiana, and Max on The Lighthouse Family Podcast.

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Welcome back to the Lighthouse Family Podcast. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Martika Peterson, a devoted mother alongside her husband Damien, raising two beautiful children, Kaidence and Damien.

In this episode, Martika shares a heart-wrenching journey that began with her daughter's severe headaches in October 2021. Their world took a devastating turn in September when Kaidence's grandmother was diagnosed with COVID-19 and tragically passed away in October.

Initially, Martika believed Kaidence's headaches were stress-related due to the loss of her best friend, her beloved grandmother. It wasn't until Thanksgiving Day 2021 that she decided to seek medical help, concerned for her daughter's health. The emergency room visit revealed a mass on Kaidence's right temporal bone.

Their journey then led them to Birmingham, where a series of tests and a biopsy unveiled a diagnosis on January 11, 2022: Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. Since then, Kaidence has been receiving dedicated treatment and care.

Martika takes us through the challenging days, the emotional rollercoaster, and the gratitude she feels as they near the end of this challenging journey, with everything going according to their dedicated oncologist's plan. Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation as Martika shares her family's resilience and unwavering love in the face of childhood cancer.

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In this profoundly moving episode, we have the privilege of talking with Kelli Youngblood. Kelli and her husband Matt have two beautiful children, Emerie (10) and Lane (7).

Their story began with an unexpected twist when Lane was playing soccer with his dad and suddenly experienced excruciating stomach pains. A trip to the hospital and a shocking diagnosis from the oncology team changed their lives forever: Lane had cancer. After a nephrectomy to remove his kidney and 24 weeks of intensive treatment, Lane was declared cancer-free in October 2021. The relief was palpable, but their journey was far from over. In February 2022, routine scans brought devastating news—Lane's cancer had returned and had now spread to his lungs.

Kelli courageously shares her personal struggle with accepting help from others throughout their journey. She recounts two powerful conversations that shifted her perspective, allowing her to see the blessings God had bestowed upon her family when they needed them the most.

Faith is a central theme in Kelli's story. She opens up about her profound faith in the Lord, & entrusting everything to Him. Their son, Lane, displayed incredible faith at such a young age. With an unwavering spirit, he would begin every prayer, even in the hospital receiving treatment, with the heartfelt words, "Thank you, God, for giving us all of this JOY." This joy became a constant presence throughout their challenging journey.

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Welcome back to The Lighthouse Family Podcast. In today's episode, we have the honor of speaking with Camille Connor. Camille and her husband, Bob, have a son, Stafford, and identical twin daughters, Caroline and Connor. Their lives took an unexpected turn in 2013 when Caroline received a diagnosis that would change their family forever—Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma.

Camille begins by expressing her gratitude for having identical twins, as it enabled them to observe that Caroline wasn't growing at the same pace as her sister. After a series of tests, including a revealing MRI, they received the life-altering news of her tumor.

Despite the formidable medical challenges Caroline has faced, she has displayed an incredible level of resilience and maintained a remarkable level of health, considering the numerous medications she has had to endure over the past nine years. Although the tumor has impacted her vision, Caroline's adaptability and strength are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

In this episode, Camille shares her perspective on the concept of "normal" and emphasizes that there isn't a universal standard. She highlights the uniqueness of every individual's story. Past experiences have taught her not to grow too complacent, as life can change in an instant. She encourages us all to savor the present, recognizing the blessings that God has bestowed upon us.

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Welcome back to the Lighthouse Family Podcast, where today's episode is truly special. We have the pleasure of hosting one of our esteemed board members, Courtney DeFeo. Courtney and her husband, Ron, are the parents of two beautiful teenage daughters, Ella and Larson. She has a natural gift for communication and is passionate about writing, speaking, and providing parents with valuable tools to navigate the journey of parenthood.

The conversation begins by exploring Courtney's insights and challenges in this phase of motherhood, naturally transitioning into the topic of mom guilt. Courtney guides listeners, especially those grappling with this common struggle, helping them discern the distinction between guilt as convictions from the Spirit and condemnation from the enemy. Relatable examples of convictions and condemnations are shared, making the discussion all the more relatable.

Furthermore, the conversation extends to parents navigating childhood cancer, addressing the difficulty many face in seeking and accepting assistance when needed. Guidance is provided for those who struggle with asking for help, emphasizing the importance of support during challenging times.

Join us in this insightful and uplifting episode as we navigate the complexities of mom guilt, discover the grace within, and empower parents with valuable tools to overcome challenges along their journey.

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Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast! In this episode, Chris and Christy embark on an incredible journey alongside Teka Dodd, a mother with an extraordinary story to share. Teka and her husband, Nathaniel, are the loving parents of four beautiful children: Chloe (13), Aryanna (11), Serenity (3), and Amelia (1).

Their story takes an unexpected turn in 2016 when Teka receives a rare and life-altering diagnosis—a brain tumor. But the twists don't end there. The following year, in 2017, their lives take another startling twist when Chloe, their eldest daughter, is diagnosed with the same rare brain tumor. Their case is nothing short of unique, marking the first genetic report of its kind in the United States.

From December 2016 to June 2022, Chloe had not one but four brain surgeries. She candidly shares about the difficulties of these surgeries and the incredible resilience Chloe demonstrates in recovering after each one. Yet, amidst their medical battles, the Dodds are dealt another challenging card. Teka experiences a deeply traumatic birth experience just days before Chloe's scheduled brain surgery. Through the lens of their shared medical trauma, Teka emphasizes the profound importance of prioritizing quality time together as a family.

As our podcast draws to a close, Teka leaves us with the practical wisdom she's gained from a compassionate nurse and the invaluable life lessons she and Chloe have learned along the way. Join us in this extraordinary mother-daughter journey that exemplifies strength, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of love. Prepare to be inspired and uplifted by their remarkable story.

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Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Lighthouse Podcast. We are in week two of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, sharing heartfelt stories of families navigating the challenging journey of childhood cancer.

This week, we have the privilege of sitting down with Mia Bell, a remarkable single mother to three incredible children: Maurice (20), Cory (17), and Chloe (11). In 2017, their world was abruptly turned upside down when Chloe was diagnosed with stage IV neuroblastoma at four years old. After completing the initial treatment, Chloe faced relapse after 21 months.

Mia's story is one of unwavering resilience and determination. She sheds light on the significance of maintaining a sense of normalcy for Chloe throughout their journey, incorporating art therapy, yoga, gymnastics, and creating memories with her brothers.

As a single parent, Mia shares her experiences guiding her boys to self-sufficiency at a young age while she was by Chloe's side during treatment. Even from the hospital, she maintained consistent communication and made it a priority to verbalize her love for them daily.

Tune in to this emotional episode as we illuminate the path of resilience and love that defines the Bell family's journey and find inspiration in their story of strength and purpose.

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Welcome to the Lighthouse Podcast. Today, Chris and Christy are joined in studio by Mark and Robin Myers, the loving parents of four beautiful girls: Meredith (27), Kendall (25), Jenna (23), & their precious Kylie, who went to be with Jesus at the tender age of 12.

Kylie was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer. Her cancer journey was marked by a unique ability to find joy even in the face of adversity. When Kylie first learned about her cancer, her first response was, "God must have a great big plan for me." Kylie fought back against cancer with unwavering faith and positivity, sharing her journey through pictures and videos, touching the lives of fellow fighters and her SmileyForKylie followers.

Kylie's deep faith in God was a cornerstone of her life. She became a believer at a young age, and her faith journey was intimately connected with her battle against cancer. Throughout her treatment, Kylie continued encouraging others, both fellow pediatric cancer warriors and those reaching out to her through social media. Her primary goal was simple yet profound: "To make God smile."

When faced with the reality that her body was succumbing to cancer, she expressed a "strange peace" about dying. Kylie's final requests to her family were that they care for her beloved kitten and continue the fight to cure childhood cancer.

Join us as we delve into the inspirational story of Kylie Myers, a young girl who lived each moment with love, godly joy, and unwavering faith, leaving an indelible mark on all privileged to know her.

Join us on this heartfelt episode as we have the privilege of speaking with a remarkable sister duo, Cami Bergman and Jackie Huettner. Cami, a mother of five beautiful children – Keaton (17), Kira (15), Keely (6), Kyzer (3), and Kolt (7 months) – shares an inspiring story about her daughter Keely, who bravely faced a Leukemia diagnosis at the tender age of 4. Through the challenges and triumphs of Keely's journey, Cami and Jackie's bond has grown even stronger, despite living six hours apart. Tune in as they share their touching experiences and the unbreakable connection that has blossomed through the power of family and love.

In loving memory of Qua, this episode is dedicated to celebrating the beautiful spirit and the joy brought into the world. Always missed and never forgotten.

In this poignant episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Syhteehia Slaughter, a remarkable mother of three boys - Gary (21), Qua (18), and Tyson (9). Their lives took an unforeseen turn when Qua, at the age of 18, was diagnosed with stage 4 Renal Medullary Carcinoma on September 3, 2022, with doctors giving him less than a year to live. The shockwaves of this diagnosis resonated through their family, upending their world in an instant.

As a single parent and the sole provider for her family, Syhteehia opens up about how she navigates uncharted territories. Her fierce dedication to keeping Qua's spirits high, despite the heaviness of his illness, speaks to her unwavering strength. Through the ups and downs, Syhteehia's faith journey has deepened, teaching her the value of living in the present moment and cherishing every interaction with her children. The perspective shift from a life dominated by work to one rooted in presence and connection has been profound.

Join us as we delve into the inspiring story of Qua, a young warrior, and his family's steadfast commitment to resilience, hope, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.

In this deeply moving podcast episode, we sit down with Lexie Mulvihill, a remarkable individual who shares her heartfelt journey as a sibling to her brother Jake, who battled cancer with unwavering spirit. Lexie paints a vivid picture of the precious bond she shared with her brother, describing how their relationship was a source of joy, strength, and endless inspiration. Through candid anecdotes, she walks us through her experiences as a supportive presence in her brother's life, offering insights into caregiving's challenges and triumphs while managing her commitments as a high school student and competitive swimmer.

With a touch of vulnerability, Lexie shares how Jake's passing left her feeling heartbroken yet motivated to carry forward his legacy of positivity. She delves into the ways she keeps his memory alive, the role of mental health in her ongoing journey, and the invaluable advice she extends to others experiencing grief and loss. Join us as we delve into a heartfelt conversation that explores sibling-hood, caregiving, resilience, and the enduring power of love.

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Welcome to Season 7 of The Lighthouse Podcast! In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Karen Stubbs, founder of Birds on a Wire—a ministry dedicated to supporting and empowering mothers through every stage of motherhood. With 35 years of marriage to her husband Greg, they've raised four children and have been blessed with five grandchildren.

Today, Karen sheds light on the fascinating world of temperaments and how understanding them can revolutionize parenting. It all started when Karen struggled to comprehend her son Taylor's behavior at around age 3. Thankfully, a friend recommended "Personality Plus for Parents" by Florence Littauer, which opened Karen's eyes to temperaments and how God wired us all differently.

Karen provides practical examples of how parents can support their children through different temperaments, including those on treatment, while fostering sibling harmony. In crises, Karen emphasizes the significance of recognizing each temperament's core needs. This knowledge enables parents to meet specific needs daily, enhancing their child's emotional well-being.

Lastly, Karen delves into the importance of understanding your spouse's temperament, especially during emotional moments. By appreciating and respecting each other's unique emotional responses, couples can provide the space and support aligned with their God-given wiring.

Join Chris and Christy on this heartfelt episode of the Lighthouse Podcast as they have a poignant conversation with Chris and Amanda Decicco. They have three children, Zach (11), Ava (7) and their son Jayden who was promoted to Heaven in April of 2015.

From the moment Jayden was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, Chris and Amanda faced the unimaginable challenge of coping with their son’s limited time. They discuss the initial shock of receiving the prognosis & how they began to process the overwhelming emotions that came with it.

Amanda opens up about her spiritual journey, finding solace and guidance in her faith. Surrendering to God's will, she learned to let go of control and trust the process. Her Christian journey inspired her to become a listening voice for families in similar situations. She wrote "The Hero Within," a book that shares their inspiring journey and offers hope to others facing adversity.

In their conversation, Chris and Amanda emphasize the importance of surrendering to God, letting go of control, and trusting in His plan. They discuss how they keep Jayden's presence alive within their family, talking about him and celebrating his birthday as a cherished part of their lives. They actively participate in charity events and give back to families enduring similar journeys.

Discover the power of faith, resilience, and giving back as they offer invaluable insights and support to families navigating similar paths.

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast! In this episode, Chris and & Christy had the honor of speaking with Christy Owens. She is married to her husband, Ira, and they have three children, Grace, Noah & Jonas. 

Christy's son Jonas was diagnosed with Pre-B-Cell Leukemia at 16 months old. She opens up about the initial struggles of his diagnosis, treatment, and the uncertainties that plagued her family throughout their three-year journey. Christy shares a pivotal moment when she learned to focus on the present rather than fearfully anticipating the future. She found strength and trust in God's goodness, learning to focus on the present rather than anxiously worrying about the future.

As Christy immersed herself in a supportive Facebook group titled Christian Parents of Kids with Cancer, she found solace, encouragement, and a platform to express her emotions through writing and sharing bible verses. Eventually, the Facebook page was given to Christy, and this space has become a sacred place for mothers to find strength, support, and spiritual nourishment. Discover the power of coming together and serving one another through the love of Christ amidst life's most difficult trials.

On this episode of the Lighthouse Podcast, Chris and Christy speak with Brent and Susan Woodard, parents to their daughter, Grace (10), and Zachary, who was promoted to Heaven from a rare neuromuscular disease in May 2019. Despite his illness, Zachary's mind remained strong even as his muscles stopped developing, requiring him to use a ventilator and undergo multiple hospitalizations.

During one of his hospital stays, a family friend decorated Zachary's room with Christmas lights, which not only brightened up the space but also brought joy to Zachary and caught the attention of the hospital staff. This simple act of kindness inspired Zachary to want to do the same for other children in the hospital. Shortly after, Zachary met Jesus. Brent & Susan found their new purpose in life was to fulfill Zachary’s dream, and Lightz of Hope was born.

Lightz of Hope aims to bring hope and happiness to children affected by long-term illness or disability by giving them LIGHTZ, a symbol of hope. Brent and Susan continue to honor Zachary's legacy through this mission, spreading joy and making a difference in the lives of children and their families.

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast! In this episode, Chris and Christy had the privilege of speaking with Sara Olsher. Sara is a single mother to a 12-year-old daughter, the CEO of Mighty + Bright, Author, and Executive Director of the Resilience Campaign.

At the age of 34, Sara was diagnosed with breast cancer and found herself frustrated with the lack of resources explaining cancer to children. Sara began to have foundational conversations with her daughter, explaining her diagnosis and treatments. During her treatment, Sara began designing resources specific to cancer — including a children's book explaining the science of cancer and a visual calendar for kids to take the chaos out of treatment.

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast!  In this episode, we explore the effects of trauma and grief on the body and brain and how individuals can cope with these difficult experiences. Our guest, Heather Cobb, brings over 20 years of experience helping children and adults of all ages and walks of life through grief and trauma.

Heather begins by discussing the definition of trauma using examples we can all understand. She explains trauma's effects on the body and brain and how it can lead to long-term negative consequences if not properly addressed. She then dives into the impact of unresolved grief, highlighting its physical and emotional toll on individuals.

Moving on to coping mechanisms, Heather cautions against certain methods that don't work, such as using substances or engaging in risky behaviors. She then offers helpful tips and strategies individuals can use to cope, including mindfulness, being outside, sleep habits, and other self-care activities.

Heather acknowledges that not everyone has access to professional counseling and provides practical advice for those who may not have the financial or logistical means to seek therapy. She encourages you to move towards community and find a safe person. In closing, through her insights and expertise, listeners will understand better how trauma and grief affect the mind and body and practical strategies for managing.

Today, Dustin and Chelsea Cooley joined Chris and Christy on The Lighthouse Podcast. The Cooley family lives in Arkansas with their two daughters - Emma Brooke (6 years old) & Elizabeth Grace (14 months old). Emma was diagnosed at three years old with B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.