Episode 219 - Who Am I Now: Identity After Menopause and Cancer

In this very special community conversation, I sit down with a group of incredible women from our Menopause and Cancer community to explore something so many of us struggle with after cancer treatment… identity. I’m so grateful the group allowed me to get this conversation out to you! Lucky us. Who are we now? Together, we talk openly about the physical and emotional changes that can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves — from body image and confidence, to work, relationships, grief, loss, purpose and rebuilding. Rather than bringing in an expert, I thought it might be best to just have an honest conversation, share experiences and learn from one another. Because the wisdom in our community is WONDERFUL! What became clear throughout this discussion is that so many of us are living in what I call “the messy middle” — no longer who we were before cancer, but not yet fully arrived in who we are becoming. If you’ve ever felt lost, changed, disconnected or uncertain about your place in the world after treatment, this episode is for you. **YouTube Wellness Series:** https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsUEBZ4ZwowoJ0t4pV-gmwGSqruDPm-2P&si=7UE81giK-2v5eByM **Episode 214 - What It Really Feels Like & And Your Questions Answered:** https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/episode-214-what-it-really-feels-like-and-your/id1631842514?i=1000762984322 Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction 03:18 Exploring identity and personal growth 07:51 The jar and pebbles analogy 12:31 Coping with treatment and diagnosis 13:49 Discussing challenges of societal expectations 16:47 Struggles with overthinking and doubt 22:47 Facing the unknown post-treatment 23:47 Sharing post-cancer treatment experiences 29:24 Reflecting on life after cancer 32:42 Coping after a mastectomy 35:11 Morning mirror positivity trick 40:24 Navigating daily challenges with compassion 45:36 Navigating menopause and survivorship 47:42 Reflecting on personal growth journey 49:40 Focusing on self-care and being present **Connect with us:** **For more information and resources visit our website:** www.menopauseandcancer.org **Or follow us on Instagram** @menopause\_and\_cancer **Join our Facebook group:** www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub