This week, actor Ali Bastian (Hollyoaks, The Bill, Doctors) joins Stef to talk about discovering a lump while breastfeeding — a lump that turned out to be breast cancer. Trusting her instincts, she sought medical advice right away, and thank goodness she did.

Ali also opens up about her journey as the parent of a child with severe food allergies, sharing candid insights into navigating that challenging world.

*Just to clarify: it may have sounded as though Ali weaned her daughter at 8 weeks, but that’s not the case. She was actually weaned at five and a half months. We apologise for any confusion!

Ali recommends following @theallergybadge and @drhelenallergy on Instagram.

Some good kids books about allergies are 'Matilda Has An Allergy' by Aimee Victoria Allen and 'Have You Ever Seen a Bee with Hives?' by Davina Steel (a previous episode from 18th Feb 2025 is well worth a listen).

Stef McSherry is a mum of 2 and a pre-school activity and behaviour specialist, working with that age group for over 20 years. 

Stef is also the creator of the award - winning, multi - activity programme Kinderama. If you're looking for imaginative classes for your pre-schooler check out www.kinderama.com. 

And if you want to spark some imaginative play at home why not take a look at https://irishfairytails.com/ 

Become a curious mermaid or a brave dragon with these beautiful book and tail sets! 

Thanks for listening to the podcast, I hope it helps in some way. 

Please tell a friend or share an episode or Follow/ Subscribe/Review so I can keep continue to produce free and essential parenting content. 

Want to ask a question or suggest a guest? Email [email protected] 

Join us on Instagram: 

Stef: @kinderama @irishfairytails 

The Mum Mind: @themummindpodcast 

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