#195 Persistence is progress with Madeleine Ruff

Madeleine was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma at age 16 when a tumour was found in her left ankle. She ultimately won her year-long battle with cancer, but not before earning a few battle scars, including the amputation of her left leg.

While studying voice at the University of Miami's Frost School of Music, Ruff began penning fan- favourites like "Close the Door" and "Don't Fall", the title track to her debut album.

Her experiences during cancer treatment provided the inspiration for another favourite on the album: the emotionally charged "Tell Me Not to Worry", which she began writing during a fever-ridden drive to the hospital.

As a two-time cancer survivor and amputee, Ruff performs on a high-heeled prosthetic leg that she jokingly refers to as her "Barbie foot."

Ruff's confidence, maturity, and sense of humour shine in her songs. The Daily Freeman counted Don't Fall among the top ten regional albums of 2013. With her follow-up album, Maddy makes one thing clear: whether it's cancer or dating in New York, she's Over It.

Maddy is an up-and-coming singer-songwriter with the no-nonsense sass of a true New Yorker. As a Broadway Baby born and raised in Manhattan, Ruff's musical influences come from all over the proverbial map. Although Ruff has a penchant for rock and roll, it won't surprise you that she has a background in both jazz and opera as well.

As frontwoman of her band, The Ruff Riders, Ruff draws comparisons to the emotion and beefy musicality of Amy Winehouse and Fiona Apple. Ruff's old school, bluesy vocals blended with modern writing create a truly unique sound.

You can find out more about Madeleine by visiting her website www.maddyruff.com and you can connect with her through Instagram. 

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For more information about James Roberts (the host of the podcast), visit fitamputee.co.uk and connect with me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram