In this episode of the Nick Strong Podcast, pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Katie Fehnel shares her insights on navigating the complexities of pediatric brain tumors, the importance of family support, and the tight-knit community of specialists in this field.

She discusses the emotional challenges faced by families and healthcare providers, the significance of fundraising for research and support, and her personal reflections on patient care, particularly her experiences with Nick. The conversation emphasizes the need for second opinions and the collaborative nature of pediatric oncology.

Learn more about Katie here: https://www.danafarberbostonchildrens.org/find-a-doctor/fehnel-katie-pricola
Support the Nick Strong Foundation https://nickstrongfoundation.com/

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Pediatric Neurosurgery
02:36 Navigating a Child's Diagnosis
05:33 Finding the Right Care
08:40 The Importance of Second Opinions
11:24 The Tight-Knit Community of Pediatric Neurosurgery
14:32 The Role of Fundraising in Pediatric Care
17:27 Personal Reflections on Patient Care
20:14 The Emotional Journey of a Neurosurgeon
23:06 Memories of Nick and Patient Relationships

In the very first episode of the Nick Strong Podcast, hosts Matt Medeiros and Jen Gaspar speak with Dr. Joanna Gell, a physician-scientist at The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine and Connecticut Children’s. Dr. Gell shares an accessible and heartfelt look at her groundbreaking research into germ cell tumors, including those found in the brain, and explains how scientific progress connects directly to the lives of children and families affected by pediatric cancer.

Through this conversation, listeners learn how translational research — the bridge between lab discoveries and clinical care — can lead to better diagnostics, improved treatments, and reduced long-term side effects for young patients. Dr. Gell also discusses the unique challenges of studying rare cancers, the importance of community-driven funding, and how even modest donations can fuel life-changing breakthroughs.

Jen reflects on her son Nick’s experience with a rare intracranial germ cell tumor, underscoring why awareness, research, and parent support networks are so critical. Together, they remind listeners that hope, collaboration, and persistence are at the heart of every medical advancement.

Key Takeaways

• Translational research connects lab discoveries (in mice and cell models) to real-world treatments for children.
• Germ cell tumors originate from reproductive cells and can appear in unexpected areas, like the brain.
• Rarity makes research difficult, but focused funding and collaboration can drive vital progress.
• Liquid biopsy techniques may allow doctors to diagnose and monitor brain tumors less invasively.
• Every contribution counts — even small donations help launch projects that can evolve into major breakthroughs.

Important Links & Resources

• The Jackson Laboratory
• Connecticut Children’s Medical Center
• Nick Strong Foundation
• Help and Hope Happens Here Podcast