What would you do if both of your children were diagnosed with a life-threatening genetic disease—and there was no support system in place for parents like you?

In this inspiring episode, Katie interviews Laura Bonnell, a former Detroit news reporter turned full-time advocate and nonprofit founder. After both of her daughters were diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF), Laura transformed her grief and determination into the Bonnell Foundation, providing real-time support to families across the U.S. who are navigating life with CF.

In this powerful episode, we explore:

How Laura pushed for her daughter’s diagnosis when doctors dismissed her instincts Why child life services were “among the best things” during hospitalizations What it’s like raising two daughters with cystic fibrosis in the same home The emotional toll of pretending “everything’s fine” as a medical parent How her foundation is providing financial relief, mentorship, and inspiration Why advocacy can take many forms—and how small actions can create significant change

Whether you’re a CF parent, a caregiver of a chronically ill child, or someone passionate about parent-led advocacy, this episode will move and motivate you.

Timestamps & Key Topics

[00:00] – The Power of Child Life Services How art, distraction, and support brought relief during hospital stays

[03:00] – Meet Laura Bonnell From Detroit news reporter to cystic fibrosis advocate and nonprofit founder

[06:00] – A Life-Altering Diagnosis How Laura’s instincts—and persistence—led to a CF diagnosis after months of dismissal

[09:00] – Fighting for Answers & Processing the News Pulling over mid-assignment to receive the call—and deciding, that same day, to keep moving forward

[12:00] – Advocacy from the Start Speaking publicly just weeks after diagnosis and discovering the emotional weight of her new reality

[14:00] – Life with Two Children with CF Navigating work, marriage, and hospitalization rotations while trying to maintain “normalcy”

[16:00] – School Accommodations & Advocacy Wins How brochures, IV poles, and enzymes in every classroom made private school possible

[18:00] – The Hidden Truths of “Being Fine” Why Laura never told friends how hard it really was—and what she wishes she could’ve said

[21:00] – Building Community & Finding Strength in Other Moms How hospital garden meetups and phone calls with CF parents created safe spaces

[23:00] – Founding the Bonnell Foundation How a calendar and a vision turned into a national nonprofit serving families with CF

[26:00] – What the Bonnell Foundation Offers From financial assistance and college scholarships to CF masterclasses and bilingual resources

[28:00] – “Don’t F With Me”: Laura’s Strength as an Advocate Why she’ll knock on every door, from Capitol Hill to the hospital billing department

[29:00] – Celebrating Her Daughters Emily’s resilience through hospitalizations and marathon training Molly’s fearless leap to study in London and become a sustainability changemaker

Resources & Links

Learn More About The Bonnell Foundation: www.thebonnellfoundation.org Follow Laura Bonnell: @thebonnellfoundation Apply for Scholarships & Financial Support: CF Support Programs More Episodes: Child Life On Call Podcast

Share Your Thoughts!

Did Laura’s story inspire you? Are you a CF parent or caregiver walking a similar road? Share your story in the comments or tag us on social media to keep the conversation going.

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The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.