In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into a story Today's episode embodies hope, love, and resilience. My guest, Janette Schwendeman, shares her family's extraordinary journey through the harrowing experience of pediatric cancer.
Janette's story begins with the birth of her third child, Josie. What should have been a time of joy and completion for their family took a sudden turn when Josie was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (AML) at just eleven weeks old. The diagnosis was a shock that left Janette and her husband, Casey, paralyzed with fear and uncertainty.
Janette vividly recalls the moment she received the news. "When you're told your child has cancer and has a poor prognosis, it's paralyzing. Pure trauma," she says. The initial days were a blur of grief and confusion, but Janette's determination to fight for her daughter's life soon took over. She immersed herself in learning everything she could about the diagnosis, becoming Josie's fiercest advocate.
The journey was incredibly challenging, especially since it took place during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Janette had to stay in the hospital with Josie for ten months, unable to leave or have visitors. Yet, she found solace in small blessings, like being able to Facetime her other children or order food from outside. "You have to find the glimmers of rainbows throughout it because they are there if you look," she advises.
Janette's story is not just about the medical battle but also about the emotional and mental fortitude required to navigate such a crisis. She emphasizes the importance of a positive mindset and community support. "Focus on watering the seeds that are growing," she says, highlighting the need to nurture the relationships and aspects of life that bring joy and strength.
One of the most heartwarming parts of the story is the role of Josie's older brother, Caden, who became her bone marrow donor. At just six years old, Caden showed incredible bravery and love for his sister. His donation was a turning point, leading to Josie's remission and a new lease on life.
As Janette reflects on their journey, she shares valuable advice for other families facing similar challenges. "Find joy in the story you're living and seek support," she says. Her words are a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is hope and light to be found.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the resilience required to face life's toughest battles. Janette's story is a powerful reminder that while we cannot always control the cards we are dealt, we can choose how we play them.
Tune in to hear the full conversation and be inspired by Janette Schwendeman's incredible journey. You won't want to miss it.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Ruthie's Table 4
For more than 30 years The River Cafe in London, has been the home-from-home of artists, architects, designers, actors, collectors, writers, activists, and politicians. Michael Caine, Glenn Close, JJ Abrams, Steve McQueen, Victoria and David Beckham, and Lily Allen, are just some of the people who love to call The River Cafe home. On River Cafe Table 4, Rogers sits down with her customers—who have become friends—to talk about food memories. Table 4 explores how food impacts every aspect of our lives. “Foods is politics, food is cultural, food is how you express love, food is about your heritage, it defines who you and who you want to be,” says Rogers. Each week, Rogers invites her guest to reminisce about family suppers and first dates, what they cook, how they eat when performing, the restaurants they choose, and what food they seek when they need comfort. And to punctuate each episode of Table 4, guests such as Ralph Fiennes, Emily Blunt, and Alfonso Cuarón, read their favourite recipe from one of the best-selling River Cafe cookbooks. Table 4 itself, is situated near The River Cafe’s open kitchen, close to the bright pink wood-fired oven and next to the glossy yellow pass, where Ruthie oversees the restaurant. You are invited to take a seat at this intimate table and join the conversation. For more information, recipes, and ingredients, go to https://shoptherivercafe.co.uk/ Web: https://rivercafe.co.uk/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/therivercafelondon/ Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/therivercafelondon/ For more podcasts from iHeartRadio, visit the iheartradio app, apple podcasts, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com