The Village That Carried Us: Mel's Journey Through Her Son's Cancer Diagnosis

This is the episode you won’t want to miss. It will break your heart — and gently piece it back together again.

In today’s powerful and deeply moving conversation, I sit down with Mel, a devoted mother whose life was turned upside down when her seven-year-old son, Tom, was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic cancer just days before Christmas. What followed was over a year of high-dose chemotherapy, radiation, and a complete reshaping of life as they knew it.

Mel shares with breathtaking honesty what it means to parent through trauma — the sleepless nights, the fear, the hospital routines — and how she and her husband made an early decision to show up equally for both of their boys. She speaks to the strength she didn’t know she had, the heartbreak of watching Tom lose friends, and the unexpected healing that came from connection.

In this episode, we explore:

• The moment they found the lump, and how everything changed

• Honest conversations with a child facing their own mortality

• The Starlight Room, and the magic of childlike joy in a hospital ward

• Survivor’s guilt, anxiety, and learning to live moment to moment

• The simple things that kept Mel going — coffee, sunshine, and deep breaths

• The village that carried them — and why asking for help changed everything

This story is one of fierce love, unimaginable challenge, and incredible hope. Whether you're a parent, a carer, or someone holding space for someone in pain — Mel’s voice will stay with you long after the episode ends.

Quote to carry with you:

“In this moment, he’s okay.”

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💛 If you or someone you love is facing cancer or navigating grief, please know you're not alone.

📞 Cancer Council Support Line: 13 11 20
📞 Griefline Helpline: 1300 845 745

Support is available — please reach out.

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