Child psychologist Joanna Breyer says the beginning of a hospital stay can be among the most intimidating experiences for a sick child. One hospital in the Netherlands transformed its facility into a Teddy Bear Hospital for a day to playfully introduce the experiences a child might have there.

Child psychologist Joanna Breyer says the beginning of a hospital stay can be among the most intimidating experiences for a sick child. One hospital in the Netherlands transformed its facility into a Teddy Bear Hospital for a day to playfully introduce the experiences a child might have there. Christiaan Triebert

For most parents, having a child who is hospitalized, severely sick or terminally ill is unimaginable. And if a family is facing this reality, the practical and emotional challenges can feel overwhelming.

Child psychologist Joanna Breyer worked at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston for more than 25 years. She supported children and families as they navigated illness, medical treatment, and sometimes even death. She has now distilled what she learned into a new book, “When Your Child Is Sick.”

Joanna Breyer also happens to be the wife of Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer. Diane thought you might enjoy listening to an excerpt of their conversation from his 2010 appearance in which he discussed his book, “Making Our Democracy Work: A Judge’s View.” You can hear the entire interview here.

Guests

  • Joanna Breyer Child psychologist; author of "When Your Child Is Sick: A Guide To Navigating The Practical And Emotional Challenges Of Caring For A Child Who Is Very Ill"

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