Win Bars for LSU Tiger Football and Aplastic Anemia Pediatric Patients

During this week's episode, Katie sits down with Ryan Solieau, an LSU Alum, and dad to a Henry who was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia. Aplastic Anemia is a rare blood disorder where bone marrow stops making new red blood cells, which appeared in Henry as a heart rate of 250.

Ryan takes us through the experience of learning a new reality during all phases of Henry's diagnoses, from learning how to navigate Henry's initial hospital stay, all the way to supporting Henry emotionally during his monthly transfusions. In the episode, we also learn from Ryan how crucial it is to take care of oneself in order to be the best advocate for Henry.

Timestamps 1:37 - Intro to Ryan

3:38 - The Hospital Experience: A Second Family

6:24 - The Diagnosis: A Life-Changing Moment

9:38 - Navigating the Medical System

13:49 - Understanding Aplastic Anemia

15:27 - The Roles of Fathers in Caregiving

18:12 - Building Relationships with Hospital Staff

20:44 - Recognizing Emotional Needs

26:40 - Advice for Parents: Seeking Help and Support

35:08 - Fatherhood and Personal Growth