“Motherhood changed me. I did not lose myself in motherhood, I found the person I always wanted to be. Mothers are reborn when a child enters this world. But what happens when a mother loses a child, when she has to move through life with that terrible feeling that something, someone is missing” – Meghann Dibrell.
In this episode of Rooted Childhood Meghann talks with her incredibly brave friend Joscelyn who shares the story she never knew was coming and never wanted to tell. Joscelyn’s first child River was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma (a cancer of the nerve cells) which had crossed the midline of his body. His tumor was spread out through his entire abdomen and chest but had the volume of a basketball. Neuroblastoma is the third most common childhood cancer.
Since River’s death, Joscelyn has channeled her energy into a nonprofit organization founded in River’s honor. River’s Rainbows is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting pediatric cancer families and advocating for research and education for all pediatric cancers.
River’s Rainbows aims to support caregivers in simple ways like a cup of coffee and a stack of magazines and by offering support groups and connecting parents who just need to talk to someone who has been in their shoes. While nothing can ever bring him back, River’s Rainbows will carry on the legacy of a very special little boy.
To learn more about River’s Rainbows and how you can support the organization please visit River’s Rainbows on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/riversrainbows/
Until next time, may there be magic, and wonder, and beauty in your days, for this, is what childhood is all about.
Start connecting with your children using Rooted Childhood’s monthly resource, find it here at www.rootedchildhood.com
