Episode 5: Emotional Wellbeing

Emotional wellbeing involves being present, having courage, and focusing on what’s important—even in tough times. But emotional health may look different when a child has a serious illness, especially if emotional health needs were there before diagnosis.  In this episode, Clay Culp and Kendra Parris talk with caregiver Patricia LeBlanc and her daughter Sophie about emotional health while Sophie was going through treatment. Sophie was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma at age 12. Kendra talks about the importance of taking care of yourself before you can take care of your child. Patricia discusses how her vision for Sophie’s life had to shift and explains how they embraced times to play and have fun together. Sophie talks about how her confidence grew and how she learned to manage her anxiety. The group explores the importance of sharing your burdens and getting support.   A special thank you to our host, Clay Culp, senior social worker at St. Jude; our expert Kendra Parris, associate member of the St. Jude faculty in Psychology and Biobehavioral Sciences; and Patricia and Sophie LeBlanc.  This episode was recorded August 1, 2025.  Learn more about Sophie’s diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma on St. Jude Care & Treatment and Together by St. Jude™.  Learn more about Psychology and Mental Health Services and wound vac therapy on Together by St. Jude™.  A halo brace (or halo vest), mentioned in this episode, is a brace used to keep the spine and neck from moving and protect them after surgery.  If you’re feeling hopeless, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or chatting online for support.   St. Jude does not endorse any branded product or organization mentioned in this podcast.