SickKids VS

Can We Heal the Brain? SickKids VS Brain Injury

SickKids VS

Show Notes

When a child suffers a serious brain injury, doctors can help them cope with the consequences, but they often can’t fix the damage that has been done. Or can they? Spurred by patient families who won’t settle for the status quo, a team of scientists is challenging a long-held belief about the brain’s limits. (For behind-the-scenes extras and show notes or to fund research like this, please visit SickKidsFoundation.com/podcast.) Generously sponsored by CIBC and edited by Quill, this is the SickKids VS Podcast.

More from SickKids VS

Oct 22, 2026

There are a lot of myths about autism, making it hard to figure out what we really know — and what we don’t. We talk to leading researchers Drs. Stephen Scherer and Louise Gallagher, as well as SickKids research participant Jon, about what our genes are teaching us about autism. They'll help us sort facts from fiction — and explain how a "holy grail" breakthrough could give children and families more care options.

Oct 8, 2026

Most of us seek — and find — answers whenever worrisome symptoms arise. But some kids grow up facing ever-evolving health issues without discovering why. Hear how far and long Melika and her parents went in their search for an elusive answer. And meet the determined genetics counsellor who provides families like theirs with a much-needed glimmer of hope during the anguish of not knowing what’s wrong.

Sep 24, 2026

When a clinical trial offers hope, financial barriers shouldn't stand in the way. For 12-year-old Nika and her family, participating in a potentially life-saving clinical trial at SickKids means more than appointments and medications; it means travel, unexpected expenses, and a new routine. In this episode, Nika’s mom, Amanda, shares what that journey has looked like, and how a new SickKids program is helping families like hers remove some barriers, so that they can focus on what matters most.

Sep 10, 2026

In middle school, Mason was struggling to get through the day without an accident. He has bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD), an extremely common condition. But Mason is part of the 1 per cent of kids who don't respond to any existing treatment. Until now. Hear how his SickKids team, an innovative program, and one tiny device strengthened the connection between his mind and body - and opened up his entire life.

Jul 10, 2025

Newborn mortality is one of the biggest challenges facing global child health. One SickKids scientist is determined to change that with an inexpensive kit that gives parents the tools they need to keep their newborn healthy and safe. Join us as we track the kit’s impact in northern Pakistan — and its potential to save children's lives around the world.

See all episodes →