A Mother-Daughter Journey Through Crohn’s Disease, Storytelling, and Advocacy (265)- Quinn + Kirby's Story

In this moving and hope-filled episode, mother-daughter duo Quinn Wyatt and Kirby Larson share the deeply personal story behind their middle grade novel, Gut Reaction. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease as a teen after years of being dismissed, Quinn opens up about her experience living with a misunderstood chronic illness. Kirby, an acclaimed author, reveals what it took to revisit this painful chapter of their lives and co-write a book that helps kids feel seen. Together, they explore diagnosis delays, self-advocacy, parenting through illness, and how their storytelling became a form of healing and community connection.

Resources Mentioned:

• Gut Reaction by Quinn Wyatt and Kirby Larson 

• Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation – https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/

• Learn more: https://gutreactionbook.com

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Keywords: Crohn's disease, chronic illness in kids, middle grade books, parent advocacy, child life, invisible illness, IBD, Camp Oasis, Kirby Larson, Gut Reaction book, diagnosis journey, storytelling therapy, chronic illness support, medical parenting, Child Life On Call Podcast

 

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