In this conversation, Kim Hey shares her intimate journey through a diagnosis that forced her to confront not just her mortality, but her identity. When calcifications were discovered in both breasts, Kim faced a pivotal choice: a double mastectomy to prevent breast cancer.

But this isn't just a story about loss. It's a story about what happens when you refuse to let fear paralyse you. As a nurse, Kim understood the medical reality. As a woman, she wrestled with fears about her body image, her sexuality, and the self-identity she'd built through twelve years of pole dancing. Yet instead of retreating, Kim transformed her fear into action, turning to humour as a survival tool.

Through booby parties, ceremonial bra burnings, and dancing with surgical drains attached, Kim discovered something profound: strength and vulnerability aren't opposites. They're dance partners. Kim's journey reminds us that our story doesn't end with bad news. It's just entering a different chapter.

About Our Guest

Kim Hey is 55 and a sister, mum, nurse, wife, and soon-to-be personal trainer, with a passion for pole fitness, body movement, and body positivity. She is committed to making fitness fun, empowering, and accessible, even after major surgery.

Read the full show notes on our Substack: https://whatsfear.substack.com/p/s2e9

00:00 A Life-Changing Diagnosis

02:48 Navigating Fear and Body Image

05:10 Finding Humor and Support

07:48 Embracing Change and Self-Discovery

09:43 Reclaiming Identity Through Movement

12:27 Community and Connection

14:35 Post-Surgery Acceptance and Growth

17:02 The Journey of Self-Love and Healing

22:46 Emotional Journey Through Writing

24:18 Navigating Multiple Journeys

25:44 Discovering Strength Post-Surgery

27:36 Emotional Growth and Self-Awareness

29:53 Grief and Acceptance

31:43 Finding New Identity

33:39 Words of Wisdom for Pre-Op Self

36:31 Gifts of the Experience

38:43 It's A Wrap