Introducing Voice No. 33 - Lucy Thompson; the incredible strength that is the founder of the charity Nip (Nipple Innovation Project). In this episode Lucy is talking to us as a Voice - sharing her journey with some very rare conditions and discussing topics very rarely spoken about but that may resonate with so many people. Firstly Lucy shares her experience of being born with a congenital hip disease - Developmental Dysplasia Hip (DDH) and how despite having hip surgery as a baby, she will inevitably need surgery again in the future. However this means that every day she is faced with debilitating pain, mobility issues needing occasional mobility aids. We talk openly about the stigma of needing a mobility aid as a young person, and the immense battle as a young working woman and mother to adjust to having a hidden disability. We then continue to talk about a condition which very few people know about but probably affects a lot more people than they realise - PMDD which is Premenstrual Dysphoric disorder. This is a severe form of PMS, whereby the hormone imbalance during the menstrual cycle becomes so severe that it can cause irrational and overwhelming mood swings, including suicidal ideation that can be difficult to manage. We do have an honest and in-depth conversation about how there is greater need for a supportive society that recognises that mental health is not a choice, nor a personality trait and that better understanding is needed to help people adjust and recover. Lucy is a brilliant example of the need to become self-aware as she shows how learning to listen to her body has helped her find a way to live the best life she can by making adjustments to knowing her own limitations. Including how she discovered the life-changing benefits for her of cold water dips and how these have had a profound impact on her mental health. A truly honest and inspiring Voice that covers some lesser-talked-about health conditions.

Mortal and Strong provides a campaign using art to shine 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. Building a platform to provide health awareness, support and education to change the face of disease in young people. Founded by Dr Liz Murray. @lizmurrayart and led with photographer @samwestonphotography

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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