S5 Ep13: Fiona on inspiring change in the face of adversity

In this episode, Laura talks to Fiona, a Breast Cancer Voice and active campaigner for disability issues.Fiona speaks about being diagnosed with breast cancer over 30 years ago, and the challenges she faced during her diagnosis and treatment. She tells Laura about her disability and wheelchair use, and how it created obstacles in treatment for breast cancer. Fiona also talks about her volunteering and fundraising for Breast Cancer Now, as well as founding the initiative Swimming After Surgery.Find out more about Swimming After SurgeryFind out more about Flat FriendsTake a look at what support is on offer from Breast Cancer Now's support service Someone Like MeWe’re Breast Cancer Now, the research and support charity. However you’re experiencing breast cancer, we’re here. For information and support, visit our website or phone our free helpline on 0808 800 6000 (UK only).You can also watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:24 Laura introduces Fiona1:11 Fiona's diagnosis of breast cancer3:43 Fiona's reaction to her shock diagnosis5:26 Surgeries for breasts cancer, and unforeseen challenges8:28 Flat Friends, support charity9:43 How to talk to someone with a breast cancer diagnosis10:54 How Flat Friends has helped Fiona13:14 Fiona's disability diagnosis and its crossovers with breast cancer16:52 Disability and breast cancer21:16 Fiona's wheelchair usage22:52 Swimming After Surgery and other initiatives26:48 The beneficial impact of swimming27:37 The importance of dignity29:49 Getting involved with Breast Cancer Now32:29 The financial impact of breast cancer34:19 Fiona's experience with the benefits system39:51 Macmillan's cancer and domestic abuse initiative44:38 Tips for managing breast cancer care with a disability45:34 What needs to change in breast cancer?