Fresh Air Parenting A Child With Terminal Cancer
Feb 3, 2025
Sarah Wildman, a New York Times Opinion writer and editor, shares her heart-wrenching journey of parenting her daughter Orli, who battled terminal cancer until age 14. She discusses the emotional turmoil of navigating treatment, the impact of illness on family dynamics, and the deep conversations about life and loss with her daughter. Wildman reflects on cultural attitudes towards death and explores Jewish mourning practices, illustrating the chaos of losing a child while balancing a demanding career. Her insights on grief and resilience are both poignant and profound.
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Orly's Interview
- Sarah Wildman interviewed her daughter Orly about her cancer experience when Orly was 12.
- Orly discussed her confidence despite hair loss and how cancer changed her perspective on life's hardships.
Interview's Purpose
- Wildman wanted to share Orly's articulate perspective as a child navigating cancer care.
- The interview format provided focused, uninterrupted time for deeper conversation.
Difficult Questions
- Orly questioned her mother about pain, God, and deserving her illness.
- Wildman found these questions challenging to answer honestly, especially regarding faith.