Tune in as we talk about loss, identity and finding meaning.

In the course of my podcast and broader engagements, I’ve met numerous insightful and touching individuals. However, Stella's insights in this episode resonated deeply, stirring an unexpected shift within me. Her words seemed to reach a part of me that I hadn't anticipated, prompting a profound internal change.

Stella Duffy, a psychotherapist and two-time breast cancer survivor, is not only an accomplished writer with seventeen novels and multiple plays to her credit but also a dedicated advocate for inclusion throughout the UK. Having lived well over twenty years in post-menopause she has a special interest in life after the menopause transition – a conversation sadly lacking in the prevalent current discourse.

This episode is special - so is Stella. 

Psychotherapy: stelladuffytherapy.co.uk

Episode highlights:

• [03:26] Stella reflects on cancer therapy and struggles.
• [10:51] Self-criticism and compassion, navigating life's losses.
• [14:01] The absurdity of gender binary and cancer positivity.
• [18:08] Why is nudity seen as empowering for women?
• [25:01] Losing mortality virginity is irreversible and impactful.
• [33:58] Encouraging clients to reconnect with the body.
• [39:51] Constant fight, anxiety, body distrust, sexual expectation.
• [46:29] Self-soothing by crossing your arms and hugging yourself.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub