Hosts: Michelle & Nicola Guest: Lynda Croome, Chartered Financial Planner & Breast Cancer Survivor

Episode Overview:

• Michelle and Nicola open with a lighthearted catch-up about their weekends, social events, and wardrobe changes.
• The theme for the month is Breast Cancer Awareness, with a focus on sharing stories and encouraging regular self-checks.

Main Guest Segment:

• Introduction to Lynda Croome, who shares her journey as a two-time breast cancer survivor and her career as an independent financial advisor.
• Lynda discusses her background, how she entered financial services, and the importance of financial planning, especially for self-employed women.
• The conversation covers the challenges of facing illness as a self-employed single parent, and how critical illness insurance helped her during treatment.

Breast Cancer Stories & Lessons:

• Lynda recounts both her diagnoses (2012 and 2023/24), the differences in treatment, and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare.
• She describes symptoms to watch for, the process of diagnosis and treatment, and the emotional and physical impact of cancer and menopause.
• The importance of support networks, both personal and professional, is highlighted, as well as the value of organizations like Maggie’s.

Key Takeaways:

• Regular self-checks and early action are vital—don’t let fear delay seeing a doctor.
• Be your own advocate in medical settings; bring a support person if possible.
• Financial planning and insurance can provide crucial support during health crises.
• Support networks and kindness, even from strangers, make a difference.

Resources & Contacts:

- Lynda Croome: ljc@talisifa.com | 07904 222864 | LinkedIn & Facebook

• Maggie’s Nottingham: Open to anyone affected by cancer in the East Midlands (Google “Mount Maggie’s Nottingham”)
• Contact the show: [Podcast email provided in episode]
• Instagram: @reinventiondiariespodcast

Closing:

• The hosts thank Lynda for her openness and support, and encourage listeners to reach out with their own stories or questions.

Topics Covered:

• Weekend catch-up and personal anecdotes
• Breast cancer awareness and self-checks
• Lynda’s professional journey and financial advice
• Navigating illness, treatment, and recovery
• The power of support networks and advocacy
• Acts of kindness and community