Episode 6: Glimpses of Light in the Darkness

When a child is diagnosed with a serious illness, families are faced with emotions, daily changes, and the challenge of finding light in the midst of darkness. In this episode, subject matter expert Erica Sirrine talks with Shane and Ashley Timmons about their daughter Ophie’s journey with a brain tumor and the realities of caregiving through uncertainty. Shane and Ashley share what it was like to navigate the early days of diagnosis, the ongoing medical complexities, and the daily process of holding both grief and hope. They discuss how their family learned to recognize and celebrate small victories, the importance of community support, and the intentional steps they take to seek out moments of joy—even on the hardest days. Erica offers insights into coping with loss, balancing family and sibling needs, and finding light through connection and vulnerability.  A special thank you to our host and expert, Erica Sirrine, director of Social Work at St. Jude, and to our guests, parents Shane and Ashley Timmons. This episode was recorded September 23, 2025.  Learn more about Ophie’s diagnosis of anaplastic PFA ependymoma on St. Jude Care & Treatment and Together by St. Jude™. Learn more about Avastin®, feeding tubes, and radiation therapy on Together by St. Jude™. St. Jude does not endorse any branded product or organization mentioned in this podcast.