A bonus episode of Lives Less Ordinary from the BBC World Service.

In 2020, Ellidy Pullin’s life was turned upside down when her partner, Olympic snowboarder Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin, died in a tragic accident. The couple had been trying for a baby, so in the deeply disorientating hours after his sudden death, when a friend suggested the possibility of a posthumous sperm retrieval – a complicated, and sometimes controversial procedure whereby sperm samples are taken within 36 hours of a person's death – Ellidy knew instantly that this was something she wanted to pursue.

Lives Less Ordinary seeks out the most incredible true stories from around the world. Step into someone else’s life and expect the unexpected.

Each episode, a guest shares their most intimate and defining personal stories. Listen for real-life accounts, unbelievable twists, and inspiring journeys, which prove just how extraordinary the human experience can be.

For more episodes like this one, search for ‘Lives Less Ordinary’ wherever you get your BBC podcasts.

If you have a story to tell, get in touch: [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 0044 330 678 2784