CdLS Connections

Canadian CdLS Foundation

Navigating the challenges & triumphs of Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) and where we explore, learn, and share everything related to CdLS. We will learn from families, clinicians, researchers & educators and those exploring new frontiers relevant to the CdLS community.

  1. 2025/07/03

    Ep. #13 - 💜 Family Series: Remembering Tami — A Father’s Story, GI Complications & Advocacy in CdLS

    In this deeply personal episode of CdLS Connections, Ken Pfalzgraf shares the life and legacy of his daughter Tami, who passed away at age 18 in late 2024 due to complications related to a gastric duplicative cyst associated with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS). Ken reflects on fatherhood, advocacy, music, partnership, and the emotional reality of navigating complex medical systems. Through Tammi’s story, this conversation explores both the joy of raising a child with CdLS and the painful realities of medical dismissal and serious GI complications. Tami’s original music is featured throughout this episode. ⚠️ Content Note: This episode contains discussion of death and dying, which may be sensitive for some listeners. In This Episode, We Discuss: • Gastrointestinal complications in CdLS, including gastric duplicative cysts • Recognizing when a child’s symptoms may be dismissed • The emotional toll of medical decision-making • Fatherhood and partnership in raising a medically complex child • Education systems and advocating for your child’s potential • Music as connection, expression, and legacy Why This Episode Matters GI complications remain one of the most serious medical concerns in individuals with CdLS. Hearing directly from a parent who experienced these challenges offers invaluable insight for: Families navigating grief, sudden death, and advocacyClinicians working with medically complex patientsEducators supporting students with rare conditionsAdvocates seeking improved awareness and listening within healthcareThis episode bridges lived experience and clinical realities — reminding us that behind every diagnosis is a full and meaningful life. Support CdLS Education & Awareness If this episode resonated with you, please consider supporting the work of the Canadian CdLS Foundation. Your donation helps keep this podcast free and accessible to families worldwide. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1774404/supporters/new Send a text Support the show Thanks for listening to CdLS Connections brought to you by the Canadian CdLS Foundation. Stay connected with our community at www.canadiancdlsfoundation.com and follow us on social media for more stories, support and updates. Together, we're building awareness and connection for everyone affected by Cornelia de Lange Syndrome. (c) Canadian CdLS Foundation. All Rights Reserved.

    2 小時 22 分鐘
  2. 2025/06/08

    Ep.#11 - 💜 Family Series: Charlotte Nordin - A Mother's Journey & Vera

    Join us in a conversation with Charlotte Nordin, mother of 13 year old Vera who was born with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS). Charlotte shares her journey as a mother, finding meaning and how this gift has opened her heart. Charlotte shares the challenges, spiritual perspectives and practical ways to find balance in the day to day. You can watch this podcast in video format on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CanadianCdLSFoundation You can follow Charlotte Nordin in Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/charlotte.nordin?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MXh6NnRlNHh5OXY1ZQ== You can listen to Charlotte and Vera's album here: https://hummusrecords.bandcamp.com/album/celle-que-je-suis If you would like to donate to continue bringing you stories, content and information we would be grateful: https://www.canadiancdlsfoundation.com/donate Would you like to a guest on the show? Email us at support@canadiancdlsfoundation.com and we would love to hear your story helping others not feel so alone of bringing valuable expertise and experience to families, clinicians and their community. Send a text Support the show Thanks for listening to CdLS Connections brought to you by the Canadian CdLS Foundation. Stay connected with our community at www.canadiancdlsfoundation.com and follow us on social media for more stories, support and updates. Together, we're building awareness and connection for everyone affected by Cornelia de Lange Syndrome. (c) Canadian CdLS Foundation. All Rights Reserved.

    1 小時 11 分鐘

簡介

Navigating the challenges & triumphs of Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) and where we explore, learn, and share everything related to CdLS. We will learn from families, clinicians, researchers & educators and those exploring new frontiers relevant to the CdLS community.