Heather Stephen
Chris and Jeanette Kahn
S1 E8
1HR 19MIN
Chris and Jeanette Kahn talk about their son Austin and his brain stem tumor that ultimately took his life
Jeanette and Chris Kahn share their journey with their son Austin and his battle with a brainstem tumor called DIPG.
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About the Episode
Jeanette and Chris Kahn share their journey of their son Austin's battle with a brainstem tumor. They discuss the challenges they faced in getting a diagnosis and the subsequent treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Despite the difficulties, Austin found solace in playing golf and excelled in the sport. The conversation highlights the resilience of the family and their determination to make the best of their situation. After the radiation treatment, Austin's hand still wasn't fully functional, causing concern for Jeanette and Chris. They found a clinical trial at NYU that targeted Austin's specific mutation, but he needed to be able to swallow the oral chemo medication, so he had to get a feeding tube. They decided to do a second craniotomy to remove more of the tumor and relieve pressure on the brain stem. Austin's condition deteriorated rapidly, and he eventually became bedridden. The doctors informed Jeanette and Chris that there was nothing more they could do, and they had to make the difficult decision to remove the breathing tube. They spent the last few days creating special memories with Austin and saying goodbye as a family. After Austin's passing, Jeanette and Chris grieved differently, with Jeanette becoming withdrawn and Chris expressing anger. They learned to communicate openly and understand each other's grieving processes. After experiencing the loss of their son Austin, Jeanette and Chris Kahn share their journey of grief and how it has impacted their lives. They discuss the emotions and challenges they faced, the importance of having a supportive family, and the need for compassion and understanding from others. They emphasize the significance of acknowledging and talking about their son, as well as the value of practical acts of kindness from friends and acquaintances. They also reflect on the evolution of their beliefs and priorities, and the lessons they have learned through their grief. Chris is an ambassador for the Alex Lemonade Stand Foundation ALSF which is the largest independent childhood cancer charity in the U.S. It is focused on funding critical research and supporting childhood cancer families. https://www.alexslemonade.org/ https://www.alexslemonade.org/hero/austin-kahn Christ has been working with the University of Michigan in his role with ALSF to partner with them as they are focused in research specifically for DIPG brain cancer.
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