In this episode, host Jess Silva is joined by broadcaster, activist, and founder of GIRLvsCANCER, Lauren Mahon. Lauren opens up about receiving a breast cancer diagnosis in her early 30s, the emotional and financial challenges that followed, and why honest conversations around health, money, and the messy parts of life are more important than ever.

This powerful and candid conversation explores the impact of serious illness on work, finances, and mental wellbeing, and why the systems meant to support people often fall short. From benefit forms to fear of the future, Lauren doesn’t shy away from the real stuff and encourages us all to think about how we prepare for life’s curveballs.

💗 This episode is brought to you by Polly.

If you need life insurance or critical illness cover, find us here:

👉 Polly

💫 Find Lauren and the show details here:

✨Lauren Mahon: @iamlaurenmahon

✨GIRLvsCANCER: @girlvscancer, https://girlvscancer.co.uk/

✨ Host - Jess Silva → @jess.silva.wild

✨ Follow the show → @pretty_covered_pod

✨ Learn more about Polly → Polly



⏱️ Chapters

(00:00) – Diagnosis, denial and confronting the unknown

(06:15) – Facing work, finances and the emotional fallout

(14:40) – Making the system work for you

(23:30) – Talking about illness and money with confidence

(36:00) – What we don’t prepare for - and why we should

(44:55) – GIRLvsCANCER and using her voice

(56:20) – The power of community and being honest about fear

💖 Thanks for listening to Pretty Covered 💖

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Statistics, amounts, and available resources mentioned in this episode are verified and correct as of the time of filming.

During the podcast, Lauren mentioned that prices are cheaper the younger you are. Please note that this can vary depending on health and other risk factors.