One Foot Forward: Parenting Through Cancer with Haley Pollack

What happens when diagnosis, diapers, and deep love collide?

Haley Pollack, Executive Director at Bright Spot Network, and a mom who faced stage III colon cancer with a six-month-old and a preschooler, shares how she navigated weaning before chemo, naming “the scary thing” with young kids, and building a national community so no parent has to do this alone. Amri and Haley talk about gaslighting (from self and systems), the reality of survivorship, and the small, loving actions that carry families through.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to talk to very young children about cancer: naming it, previewing changes, and using books, routines, and “the team” to create safety.
• Why tiny acts matter on impossible days: The “one foot in front of the other” mindset that helps parents keep moving.
• The support parents can access right now: Bright Spot’s free groups (including survivorship), kids’ circles, book program, teddy bear clinics, financial grants, and navigation help.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:16) A journey through cancer

(02:38) Haley's diagnosis and early challenges

(04:26) Navigating motherhood and cancer

(07:16) The emotional toll and family conversations

(19:59) Introducing Bright Spot Network

(22:19) Support programs for parents and kids

(26:20) Survivorship and ongoing challenges

(33:24) Haley’s advice to parents navigating cancer

Resources:

• Check out Bright Spot Network: https://www.brightspotnetwork.org/
• Check out Bright Club and Bright Circle: https://www.brightspotnetwork.org/bright-club-and-bright-circle
• Connect with Bright Spot Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightspotnetwork
• Connect with Haley Pollack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-pollack-78355410a/
• 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