Child Life On Call: Parents Of Children With An Illness Or Medical Condition Share Their Stories With A Child Life Specialist

What if every milestone your child was supposed to reach came with countless curve balls? For Alexis Kaplan, motherhood quickly turned into a journey of advocacy, strength, and unwavering love as she navigated her daughter Gabby’s complex and rare health conditions. In this moving episode, Alexis shares:  ✅ The moment her newborn was rushed to the NICU with a collapsed lung  ✅ How her daughter’s recurring infections led to a diagnosis of immunodeficiency and collagenous gastritis ✅ The emotional toll—and strength—of being the medical historian and advocate for a medically complex child ✅ How weekly infusions, therapy, and figure skating are helping her daughter thrive ✅ Her advice for parents facing rare, chronic, or undiagnosed conditions This is a must-listen for anyone caring for a child with complex medical needs, healthcare providers who want to better understand the family perspective, and parents looking for inspiration and connection. Timestamps & Key Topics ⏱️ [00:00] – Meet Alexis Kaplan Mother