Parenting Through Cancer: Lessons I Learned as a Mom and Survivor with Amri Kibbler

As a mom of two, entrepreneur, community builder, and cancer thriver, Amri Kibbler opens up about the “in-between” seasons: when you’re not who you were, and not yet who you’re becoming. In this solo episode, she shares how she told her children about her diagnosis, what she wishes she’d done differently (including hiding a temporary ostomy), and the practical systems, scripts, and community resources that helped her family cope. Amri lays out a tender, tactical guide for mothers, caregivers, and anyone navigating cancer alongside real life.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to talk to kids about cancer: Amri explains why using the word “cancer” matters, when to share the news as a family, and how to set clear expectations around treatment days.
• Rituals that reduce guilt and anxiety: Amri shares “low-energy” activities, dice jars, and small things to look forward to that help alleviate the emotional strain during and after treatment.
• Real support through the cancer journey: Amri explores the power of delegating updates, using community resources (rides, registries, hotlines), and focusing on small, meaningful connections over grand gestures.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:58) Facing cancer as a mom

(02:21) Creating a supportive space

(02:47) Sharing personal experiences

(03:45) Navigating parenting and cancer

(05:16) Telling my kids about my diagnosis

(07:41) Dealing with recurrence and transparency

(09:11) Practical tips for cancer patients

(17:59) Importance of support systems

(20:44) Self-care and wellness

(22:58) Resources and recommendations

Resources:

• The American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org
• Check out the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery: https://www.cancer.org/support-programs-and-services/road-to-recovery.html
• Elissa Kalver’s registry, recommendations, and resources for cancer patients and caregivers: https://www.wegotthis.org
• The Colorectal Cancer Alliance: https://colorectalcancer.org/
• My Cancer Family: https://www.mycancerfamily.com
• COLONTOWN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/COLONTOWN
• COLONTOWN’s official website: https://colontown.org/
• Connect with Amri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amri-kibbler-71333b15/
• Connect with The Space Between on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetween_cancer.family
• Connect with Amri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Amri’s official website: https://www.amrikibbler.com/
• Check out S.E.A. Waves of Support Healing Selenite Bracelets: https://seawavesofsupport.com