The Untold Impact of Childhood Cancer: Supporting the Whole Family

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In Episode 12 of Act to Impact, host Brandi DeVries speaks with Amanda Sullivan, a devoted childhood cancer advocate and mother to Izzy, a survivor of a germ cell yolk sac tumor diagnosed at just one year old. Amanda shares her family's emotional journey—from diagnosis to treatment to celebrating survivorship milestones.

Through heartfelt storytelling, Amanda explores the ripple effects of childhood cancer on siblings, the power of community support, and the need for improved treatment options. Her passion for advocacy is fueled by her desire to help other families navigating similar experiences and to ensure no one feels alone on the journey. This episode is a reminder that even in the face of unimaginable challenges, purpose can be found—and action can lead to change.

✅ Takeaways

• Amanda’s daughter Izzy was diagnosed with a germ cell yolk sac tumor at age one.
• Community support played a vital role during Izzy’s treatment.
• Cancer affects the entire family—especially siblings.
• Celebrating survivorship milestones brings hope and healing.
• Amanda turned her experience into advocacy for better childhood cancer research.
• It’s okay—and necessary—to lean on others for support.
• Even small actions can make a big difference in raising awareness.
• There's a growing need for safer treatments and more targeted research.
• Sharing stories builds connection, understanding, and hope.
• Families thrive when surrounded by a strong, supportive network.

🚀 Moved by Amanda’s story? You can make a difference today. Share this episode, support a pediatric cancer organization, or offer help to a family facing a diagnosis. Whether it’s a meal, a message, or a donation—every action counts. Let’s continue building a community of impact, one story at a time.

💛 Are you inspired to take action? Take action and make an impact on a child affected by childhood cancer. Support the much-needed funding for childhood cancer by making a donation NOW to CCRF!

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Hosted by Brandi DeVries: Advocate, fundraiser, and Mrs. Minnesota International 2025.

Thank you to guest Amanda Sullivan.

This episode brought to you by Dean Schoenberg Farm and Mark Loven, Custom Business Forms.

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