The Long Road

Lisa McKelvey
  • 5.0 (16)
  • PARENTING

Sharing stories of parents who have a young person who has experienced a life changing trauma in Australia. Hosted by Lisa McKelvey. 

  1. 13 HRS AGO

    18. Mel Garcia - Living one day at a time with Epilepsy

    In this episode of The Long Road, Lisa sits down with Mel Garcia to share the moment everything changed — when her eight-month-old daughter experienced a prolonged seizure that led to a diagnosis of Dravet Syndrome. Mel speaks openly about the fear, hospital stays, constant vigilance, and the strength it takes to live one day at a time. Knowing firsthand how quickly the emotional and financial pressures mount when a child is in and out of hospital, Mel and her husband Rafa created 1 in 25 — an advocacy initiative raising awareness and funds to support families affected by epilepsy. The name reflects the statistic that 1 in 25 Australians will experience epilepsy in their lifetime. Website: 1IN25.co Thank you for walking this road with us. Lisa McKelvey x

    39 min

  2. 6 DAYS AGO

    Season 3 - Welcome Back

    Welcome back to Season 3 of The Long Road. This podcast was created to remind families facing childhood trauma, disability and adversity that they are not alone. I’ve missed these conversations — and I’m so excited for what’s ahead this season. Thank you for being here. Find all episodes and connect with us here: Website : The Long Road Podcast Lisa McKelvey xx

    7 min

  3. 24/08/2025

    17. Silver Linings: Sam Carroll on Life Beyond Childhood Cancer

    At 9 years old, Sam Carroll was diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer. Now 21, he reflects on his journey through treatment, recovery, and the silver linings he’s discovered along the way.  A story of courage, resilience, and hope.  Hosted by: Lisa McKelvey Show Notes:  Video of Sams Tour De Cure Speech - https://www.facebook.com/share/v/171Z9mAd6J/ Tour de Cure Website

    36 min

  4. 10/08/2025

    16. Sparkle in the Storm: Julie Cross’s Story of Living and Loving with Autism

    Julie Cross shares the hardest chapter of her life — losing her husband Flash after a stroke, parenting two young boys, and navigating her youngest son Thomas’s autism diagnosis.  Through heartbreak and challenge, Julie has mothered through the storms with sparkle, humour, and wisdom.  Hosted by Lisa McKelvey. Show notes:  To find out more about Julie and her book "Living and Loving with Autism": www.juliecross.com.au

    33 min

  5. 27/07/2025

    15. Grit and Grace on the Land: Sasha Stanton’s Journey After Her Son’s Farm Accident

    When Sasha Stanton’s 3-year-old son, Logan, lost his leg in a devastating farm accident (2018), life changed in an instant. What followed was a period of deep trauma, reflection, and ultimately, personal growth.  In this episode, Sasha shares the raw truth of parenting through crisis, how she rebuilt her world, and the powerful ways she now supports other rural mums facing isolation and hardship. A heartfelt conversation about resilience, values, and finding strength and community in the hardest of seasons. Hosted by: Lisa McKelvey Show Notes: Link to COOEE -  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-here-what-inspired-the-poddy-and-what-to-expect/id1798324951?i=1000700098263 https://open.spotify.com/show/7xzUToQA6rnHrYEwtJyAs4?si=c6b8240ae8db4fcd

    31 min

  6. 06/07/2025

    14. When the Road is Rare: Molly Bell on Parenting Through Uncertainty

    The Long Road - Episode 14 Guest - Molly Bell Hosted by - Lisa McKelvey In this episode, Molly Bell — a pharmacist, wife, and mother of two from Toowoomba, QLD chats about her family’s journey. Molly and Nathans youngest son, Alfie, was diagnosed with an extremely rare neuro deficiency disorder (PPP2R1A), which affects his gross motor skills and causes moderate intellectual disability.  Molly shares some of the challenges she has faced, of raising a child with additional needs, the uphill battle for services, education, support, and understanding in a system not built for rare.  Show Notes:  (1) It’s Cool to Talk Grief 2025 | Facebook (Long Luncheon)

    32 min

  7. 22/06/2025

    13. One Breath at a Time - Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH)

    The Long Road – Episode 13 Guest – Mel Nicol Hosted by – Lisa McKelvey In this episode, Mel shares what life was like raising four children while living remotely on Cubbie Station in Dirranbandi, QLD. Their journey took a complex turn when their youngest child, Will, was born with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Mel speaks openly about the challenges, the heartbreak, and the strength it takes to be a medical mum — and how, at its core, it’s all about navigating and advocating for your child. Notes and Support Links:  CDH Australia - For more information, and the FB support group.  If you enjoy this episode, please leave a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. Lisa McKelvey xx

    39 min

  8. 04/06/2025

    12. Caroline Kiefer - A Mother’s Fight: Rare Disease (GAND) and Breast Cancer

    The Long Road – Episode 12 Guest: Caroline Kiefer Hosted by: Lisa McKelvey A Mother’s Fight Caroline Kiefer is a mother of two from Melbourne, Victoria. In this episode, Caroline shares her remarkable story of strength and resilience after her only daughter, Alana, was diagnosed with a rare condition—GATAD2B-associated neurodevelopmental disorder (GAND). Together with her husband Chris and eldest son Bailey, Caroline has spent the past 17 years dedicated to giving Alana the best quality of life possible. Their journey has been filled with love, sacrifice, and tireless advocacy. As if navigating the complexities of Alana’s care wasn’t enough, Caroline received a life-changing breast cancer diagnosis when Alana was just two years old—adding a new layer of challenge and courage to their story. This is a deeply moving conversation about motherhood, perseverance, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Caroline’s voice is one of quiet strength, and her story is one you won’t forget. Tune in to hear a powerful journey of love, hope, and what it truly means to keep going—no matter what. Notes & Support Links: Mumz n' Bubz Help - Lactation Consultant, Breastfeeding SupportWhat is GAND? - Helping Hands for GANDVery Special Kids - Providing holistic palliative care for children and young people across Victoria.If you enjoy the episode please leave a quick review, it will really help the podcast out. Lisa McKelvey xx

    49 min
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About

Sharing stories of parents who have a young person who has experienced a life changing trauma in Australia. Hosted by Lisa McKelvey. 

Information

  • Creator
    Lisa McKelvey
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Long Road
  • Show Website
    The Long Road