In the pediatric cancer community, Dads are often in the background and not much of their story is told. This podcast features two dads facing a similar fight but at different stages and will relate to a part of the community often fighting in silence.

Voices from the Background: The Dad's Perspective
Claim This Podcastby Curtis Vallier & Bryan Simons
Podcast Overview
In the pediatric cancer community, Dads are often in the background and not much of their story is told. This podcast features two dads facing a similar fight but at different stages and will relate to a part of the community often fighting in silence.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
10/4/2025
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Recent Episodes

January 3, 2026
E7: Holidays are Different
<p>Keywords</p><p><br></p><p>holidays, pediatric cancer, family dynamics, emotional toll, community support, safety, traditions, childhood memories, treatment, family gatherings</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Summary</p><p><br></p><p>In this conversation, Bryan Simons and Curtis Vallier discuss the complexities of navigating family dynamics during the holiday season while dealing with pediatric cancer. They share personal experiences, the emotional toll on siblings, and the importance of community support. The discussion highlights the challenges of maintaining traditions, balancing safety, and the impact of illness on family gatherings. They also reflect on childhood holiday memories and offer advice for families facing similar challenges, emphasizing the need for understanding and support during difficult times.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Takeaways</p><p><br></p><p>The holidays can be particularly challenging for families dealing with pediatric cancer.</p><p>Coordination of treatment schedules is crucial during holiday travel.</p><p>Holidays are inherently stressful, and illness adds to that stress.</p><p>Siblings may feel neglected during treatment, even if unspoken.</p><p>It's important to find a balance between safety and family gatherings.</p><p>Community support can alleviate some of the burdens during the holidays.</p><p>Childhood holiday memories shape our expectations and experiences.</p><p>Living with cancer requires constant vigilance and adjustments.</p><p>It's okay to accept help from others during difficult times.</p><p>Making the best of each day is essential for families in crisis.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Titles</p><p><br></p><p>Navigating the Holidays with Pediatric Cancer</p><p>Family Dynamics During Treatment</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Sound bites</p><p><br></p><p>"It's a balancing act."</p><p>"It's one day at a time."</p><p>"You can't accept that?"</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Chapters</p><p><br></p><p>00:00 Introduction to the Holiday Challenges</p><p>00:59 Navigating Family Dynamics During Holidays</p><p>05:51 The Impact of Pediatric Cancer on Holiday Plans</p><p>11:52 Balancing Safety and Family Gatherings</p><p>18:00 The Emotional Toll of Holiday Decisions</p><p>20:41 Navigating Life's Challenges</p><p>26:05 The Impact of Holidays on Family Dynamics</p><p>32:13 Finding Balance in Family Life</p><p>37:05 Embracing Support and Community</p><p>40:07 Humor in the Midst of Chaos</p><p><br></p>

November 22, 2025
E6: Managing Illness with Multiple Children
<p>online criticism, misinformation, societal impact, parenting, food safety, mental health, internet culture, public opinion, personal experiences, social media</p><p><br></p><p>Summary</p><p><br></p><p>In this conversation, Curtis & Bryan discusses the challenges of dealing with online criticism and misinformation, particularly in relation to parenting and personal experiences. He highlights the ignorance of some individuals on the internet and the impact it has on mental health and societal perceptions. We speak about the challenges of managing illness with one child when another child also has a cancer battle. </p><p><br></p><p>Takeaways</p><p><br></p><p>Online criticism can be harsh and unfounded.</p><p>Misinformation spreads easily on social media.</p><p>Parenting decisions are often scrutinized by strangers.</p><p>Ignorance can lead to harmful public opinions.</p><p>Personal experiences can be misinterpreted online.</p><p>The internet can amplify negative voices.</p><p>It's important to focus on supportive communities.</p><p>Criticism can affect mental health.</p><p>Understanding the source of criticism is crucial.</p><p>Engaging with ignorance can be frustrating.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

November 8, 2025
E5: Stopping Treatment
<p>This episode features an unthinkable decision made by parents and children, a decision that can ultimately have only one outcome.</p>
7 total episodes available
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- What is Voices from the Background: The Dad's Perspective?
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This podcast updates daily.
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This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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