(Program 10395)
Guest: Thomas K. Sullivan

Only a parent whose child has been diagnosed with a chronic, potentially life-threatening illness knows the intense pain and suffering that such a condition brings with it as well as the dramatic changes it imposes on family life and the daily routine in general. It is one of the most difficult and draining tasks a parent can face.

In 2007, Tom Sullivan's 3 and half year old son, Gabriel, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. How does such an illness affect the child, the child’s parents and siblings? What are the challenges to be faced and how can those challenges be met? What role does faith play in the process and what do health care providers have to offer?