Sophie Delezio, the Australian survivor who endured two devastating car accidents as a child, has announced her next major career move: hosting a new podcast series to help parents find trusted information on children's health. The 25-year-old mother of one will front Kids' Health Explained, a podcast launched by the Sydney Children's Hospitals Network.
From Survivor to Mother and Advocate
Delezio was just two years old when a car crashed into her childcare centre in Fairfield, Sydney, in December 2003, leaving her with burns to 85 per cent of her body. She lost both feet, several fingers and her right ear. Almost three years later, she was hit by another car while crossing the road with her nanny, sustaining a broken jaw, broken collarbone, nine broken ribs, punctured lungs, two fractured vertebrae and a brain injury.
Despite these challenges, Delezio has used her experience to challenge perceptions of disability and promote accessibility, compassion and independence. Now, as a new mother to son Frankie, born in September 2024, she aims to support other parents through her own journey.
A Podcast for Anxious Parents
“If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably found yourself Googling your child’s symptoms at 2am, tossing up between whether to take them to the emergency department or to manage at home,” Delezio said. “As a mum, I know those moments all too well.”
The podcast, launching Wednesday, will feature conversations with leading clinicians and experts from across New South Wales, translating complex medical topics into simple information. Episodes will cover winter illnesses, childhood immunisations, eBikes and asthma.
Deep Connection to Children's Hospitals
In a video announcement on Instagram, Delezio reflected on her deep connection to the hospitals that cared for her after her accidents. “I also know how hard it can be to navigate those scary moments, not just for the kids, but for the parents and siblings too,” she said. “When everything feels a bit uncertain and all too new. And now today, as a new mum, I’m experiencing it from a completely different perspective.”
Honest About Childbirth and Trauma
In December 2024, Delezio spoke candidly about the birth of her son, revealing her fear of operating rooms due to countless surgeries during childhood. As keynote speaker for Perinatal Mental Health Week in parliament, she said, “PTSD, to me, comes out in mysterious ways. It’s not like what you see on television. For me, it was facing an operating theatre.” She explained that her son was born via caesarean section, a procedure that brought back traumatic memories.
Continuing to Inspire
Delezio's story of resilience continues to inspire many. Her new podcast aims to provide reliable health information, helping parents navigate the uncertainties of raising children. The series is part of her ongoing mission to use her life experiences to support others.
