Mortal And Strong - Episode 16 - Ellie

Another insightful and importance episode in the series with the wonderful Ellie Howie. Ellie is Voice No. 15 of 100 for the 2024 campaign putting a spotlight on women facing incurable disease at a young age. In this episode Ellie shares her unique and personal journey of being diagnosed with the BRCA gene mutation putting her at a significantly greater risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and other cancers. For Ellie's personal family history the major concern was the risk of breast cancer, having had several immediate family members affected, and died, from breast cancer. Ellie was thrust into the enormity of these decisions in her teens and was in her early 20's when facing decisions about genetic testing and opting to have a risk-reducing mastectomy. With so much discussion in the media currently about post-mastectomy reconstruction being a 'free boob job' this episode is so important at putting a spotlight on the significant trauma that these surgeries and conditions carry, the complexity of recovery. Ellie talks about being a trustee for the a BRCA charity, raising awareness and support for people who are going through these life changing decisions when diagnosed with being a carrier for a gene that increases the risk of cancer. Thank you to Ellie for being so honest and putting a spotlight on something that is still not widely understood or appreciated the significance to someone's life. Ellie's witty and uplifting positive mentality is everything Mortal And Strong is about, with the infamous quote in response to flippant comments/reactions of having a 'free boob job' being "Yes they're fake - ask me how!". This sums it up entirely, there is so much behind the reconstruction for anyone having a mastectomy, that needs better understanding in society.

Mortal and Strong is a campaign shining the spotlight on women facing their own mortality - those affected at a young age by a life changing illness or disease. 100 artworks produced by artists across the country along with a powerful photography series ‘Scars of Gold’ inspired by kintsugi. 100 Voices sharing messages of hope and strength through our podcast. Charity led campaign supporting other charities. Founded by Dr Liz Murray. Presented by Dr Liz Murray with occasional guest presenters. This episode guest presenter Laura Middleton-Hughes.

For more information on support available for these issues discussed in todays episode, including direction to medical information, visit our website. This episode is not intended as specific medical advice, always see your own GP/physician if you have any concerns regarding your own health. 

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