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

“What started as a terrifying diagnosis became a mission to help other families feel seen, supported, and brave.” – Kate, founder of Brave Bears Club In this reposted and newly updated episode, we revisit Kate’s emotional and empowering story as she shares her daughter Charlotte’s unexpected diagnosis of infantile spasms (IS) at 22 months old. What began as a terrifying medical journey transformed into an advocacy movement—Brave Bears Club—that now supports children with pediatric epilepsy around the world. Kate reflects on the early signs of IS, how her instincts as a mom led to a critical diagnosis, and what life has looked like navigating treatments, therapies, and the unknown. You'll also hear how she turned her experience into tangible tools of hope: an inclusive children’s book and EEG comfort bear to prepare kids for their medical experiences. Key Takeaways: ✅ Learn the early warning signs of infantile spasms ✅ Hear how Kate coped while pregnant with her second child ✅ Understand the emotional roll