Shows
Regarding MeShould You Trust AI With Your Health Info?Would you tell a stranger all your personal health info? Would you trust them not to tell anyone else? They’re the kind of questions we need to ask ourselves when using generative AI tools like ChatGPT to support our healthcare decisions. ChatGPT recently introduced changes to how it stores memories and chat history, raising important questions about data, privacy and trust across all public artificial intelligence models. In Part 2 of this conversation, Luan continues her chat with health literacy expert Dr Julie Ayre to unpack the next...2025-06-0526 minRegarding MeHow Can AI & ChatGPT Help You Prepare for an Appointment?We’re back! Regarding Me Season 2 is here and we’re starting strong with a topic that’s dominating headlines, healthcare and workplaces: AI. In this episode, we’re diving into how tools like ChatGPT might support you to self-advocate for your health, especially in those early appointments. Luan’s joined by Dr Julie Ayre, a health literacy and digital health expert, for an easily understandable, practical chat about using generative Artificial Intelligence. They talk about how to use AI, the risks of oversharing health info online, and how to stay in control w...2025-06-0237 minRegarding MeThree Women Who Spoke Up and Changed Their CareIn this Regarding Me Rewind, we revisit three powerful stories that show what can happen when women speak up, trust their instincts, and refuse to stay silent - especially when faced with bias, dismissal, or healthcare systems that weren’t built with them in mind.From challenging assumptions about metastatic breast cancer, to refusing to accept medical gaslighting, to navigating care that excluded or erased their needs - Kate, Sonya, and Rena show us that self-advocacy isn’t about being difficult. It’s about being heard.Each of these women faced different health challe...2025-05-0815 minRegarding MeSeason 1 Rewind: What the Experts Want Every Woman to Know About Advocating for HerselfBefore Season 2 lands, we’re rewinding to some of the most powerful insights from Season 1—because some messages are worth hearing more than once.In this special recap episode, Luan revisits three expert interviews that sparked aha moments and offered real tools for self-health advocacy. Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis or just want to speak up with more confidence, this episode will remind you: you don’t have to know it all—you just have to start asking.Insights from:Dr Liz O’Riordan – A breast surgeon-turned-patient advocate on why slowing down, asking q...2025-04-3013 minRegarding MeYou Have a PhD in You: Self-Advocacy, Ovarian Cancer & Integrative CareYour personal history of disease is a PhD in you—and it deserves to be heard!How do you find your voice when your body’s in shock and your world’s just turned upside down?This is a powerful story of women’s health advocacy, integrative care, and navigating the real-world challenges of self-health advocacy during—and after—ovarian cancer treatment.In this episode, Luan speaks with Gill Stannard, a naturopath and advocate who was diagnosed just hours after a GP visit—and found herself fast-tracked into surgery and chemotherapy b...2025-04-1548 minRegarding MeThis Isn’t Just Me: The Power of Community, Connection and Speaking UpIn this deeply moving and powerful conversation, Luan speaks with Rena Patel, who was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer at 40—just after her daughter turned four.Rena felt isolated, unsure where to turn, as she didn’t know anyone in her community who’d been through something similar. On top of that, she often felt unseen and unheard within a healthcare system that doesn’t always account for the diverse needs of women from ethnic minority backgrounds, or understand the different cultural perspectives of their communities. From not being shown how to identify radiotherapy burns on non-whit...2025-04-0953 minRegarding MeDr Liz O’Riordan on Self-Advocacy and Spotting BS Cancer Info OnlineWhat does it really mean to advocate for your healthcare—especially when you’re the expert?In this powerful episode, Luan speaks with Dr. Liz O’Riordan—former breast cancer surgeon, patient, author, and award-winning advocate. Diagnosed with the very disease she once treated, Liz quickly realised that clinical knowledge doesn’t prepare you for the lived experience of being a cancer patient—or how hard it can be to find the right information and support.When she turned to the internet for answers, she was shocked by the sheer volume of misinformation—that don’t jus...2025-03-2454 minRegarding MePausing Life-Saving Treatment to Regain Femininity—How Do You Decide?Self-advocacy isn’t necessarily about standing up to your medical team—it’s about speaking up so they understand what matters to you and working with them to make informed, shared decisions about your treatment and care.That’s exactly what Kate Hardman did.Diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer while pregnant, Kate faced unimaginable challenges, complex decisions, and a treatment path filled with uncertainty.Now, she’s facing another major decision: Should she have DIEP flap breast reconstruction, even though it means pausing life-saving medication?In this episode, K...2025-03-1744 minRegarding MeSaying No in Social Situations—Without Guilt or PressureAdvocating for yourself can feel uncomfortable—especially when your choices go against social norms. If you’ve ever felt pressured to justify a lifestyle change or struggled to hold your boundaries with family, friends, or colleagues, this episode is for you. Today, I chat with Kath Elliott, an alcohol mindset coach who reassessed her relationship with alcohol after a breast cancer diagnosis. Kath shares simple, practical strategies to help you confidently communicate your choices, set boundaries without guilt, and handle social pressure with ease. This conversation goes beyond alcohol—these self-advocacy skills a...2025-03-1042 minRegarding MeBiology and Biography: Shared Decision-Making in Your HealthcareHow do you make healthcare decisions that balance the biology of a diagnosis—the research-based facts and figures—with the biography of what matters to you and how you want to live your life? Today, I talk with Dr. Susannah Graham, a leading breast surgeon who champions patient-centred care. She shares her insights on empowering patients to communicate their wants and needs effectively, fostering a collaborative approach to healthcare that respects your autonomy, values, and life priorities. Join us as we unpack how shared decision-making improves patient satisfaction and well-being, empowering you to...2025-03-0352 minRegarding MeHow Creative Thinking (and a Rubber Chicken) Can Help You Make Health DecisionsFeeling stuck in your healthcare decisions? Need to figure out what’s right for you but feeling overwhelmed? This episode of Regarding Me is here to help! Today, I’m joined by Marilyn Barefoot, an award-winning creative strategist and expert in problem-solving. Marilyn shares how the principles she’s used with global brands can help you get unstuck so you can make confident decisions that align with what matters most to you—even when things get complicated. Whether it's navigating medical appointments, making tough treatment decisions, or simply regaining a sense of control...2025-02-241h 00Regarding MeYou've Got You: Trust Your Wise Inner AdvocateHow can you stay calm and make clear decisions when facing unexpected medical news? What happens to your brain in a health scare? And can you shift your mind from fear to clarity?In today’s episode Luan speaks with Josie Thomson, a neuroscience expert, and award-winning mindset coach who’s faced cancer twice, to explore how you can calm your mind in a health crisis and advocate for yourself with confidence.In this episode we talk about:The brain’s automatic response to a critical health moment —and how to take back con...2025-02-1757 min
Redefining Midlife with Jo Clark124. From Diagnosis to Advocacy: The Power of Self-Advocacy with Luan Lawrenson-WoodsIn this powerful episode, we meet Luan, whose unexpected breast cancer diagnosis at 46 transformed not just her life path but her entire approach to healthcare advocacy. Her journey from a working-class background in northern England to becoming Australia's leading voice in patient self-advocacy reveals how life's challenges can unveil our true purpose. Luan's story demonstrates that our past experiences - even those that seemed insignificant at the time - can prepare us for our most important work.Key Takeaways1. Early detection mattersLuan's cancer was discovered through her first mammogram at 46, four years before the...2025-02-101h 06Regarding MeMenopause, Gaslighting, and the Power of Self-AdvocacyWhat do you do when you’re gaslit by your doctor?This episode is part one of your guide to reclaiming agency in your healthcare.Today, Luan sits down with Sonya Lovell, host of the Dear Menopause podcast, to discuss the critical role of self-advocacy, especially when navigating menopause and cancer treatment.Sonya opens up about her experience with breast cancer, the life-changing treatment decisions she had to make on her own, and the lack of support and information surrounding treatment-induced menopause.From facing knowledge and power im...2025-02-091h 16Regarding MeWhy Self-Advocacy is a Game-ChangerIn the very first episode of Regarding Me, Luan breaks down what self-advocacy really means and why it’s essential to receiving the healthcare that truly fits your needs—backed by research!Luan shares her deeply personal experience of navigating the healthcare system after her breast cancer diagnosis and the 'aha moment' that changed everything for her.And she talks about the common anxiety points women have shared with her during her work as a patient advocate and how those experiences inspired the creation of Regarding Me and the self-health advocacy movement.2025-02-0423 minRegarding MeIntroducing: Regarding MeHave you ever left a doctor’s office with more questions than answers? Have you ever felt lost in the maze of medical jargon or overwhelmed by decisions you need to make about your health? Do you break out in a sweat at the mere thought of asking for a 2nd opinion? My name’s Luan and I’m a women’s health advocate with a personal history of breast cancer. I learned the hard way that navigating the healthcare system requires more than just showing up – it’s about speaking up and advocating for yourself....2025-01-2102 min
Rewritten MeLEAP into lymphoedema: signs & interventionBreast cancer treatment or surgery can have long-term or late effects that can affect your quality of life - for life.One of those is breast cancer-related lymphoedema, a condition that causes abnormal swelling due to damage to the lymphatic system.Early monitory, detection and intervention can make all the difference! This is a crucial conversation for anyone affected by breast cancer and at risk of lymphoedema. I sit down with Sandy Templeton, Lymphoedema Therapist and Occupational Therapist to talk about:What lymphoedema is and why it occurs in...2024-10-241h 10
Rewritten MeOWise: be informed & regain controlAs cancer treatment becomes more personalised and complex, staying informed to advocate for yourself can feel overwhelming. In today’s digital world, finding trustworthy, evidence-based information is often challenging. For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I'm excited to share my conversation with Dr Anne Bruinvels, who was inspired by a friend's traumatic breast cancer experience to create OWise—a free app providing personalised support for breast cancer patients. Tune in to discover how this accredited app can help you navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and breast cancer surgeries like mastectomy and recons...2024-10-071h 01
Rewritten MeNipple-sparing mastectomy & DIEP: what, why, when and howJoin me as I sit down with Dr Joe Dusseldorp, Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon, to talk in detail about nipple-sparing mastectomy with DIEP flap reconstruction after breast cancer surgery. We talk about:What the procedure isHow it's doneWhy it may be appropriate for a patientWhen it can be done – immediate or delayed?What can impact resultsIf it increases risk of DIEP flap failureNipple sensation And Dr Joe kindly answers questions that our breast cancer community asked me to put to him about nipple-sparing options after a mastectomy!To help you...2024-09-2553 min
Rewritten MeNipple reconstruction: is it worth it?One of the most frequently asked questions from people who’ve had their nipple removed as part of their mastectomy is: “is nipple reconstruction worth it?” As with all decisions around reconstruction after breast cancer surgery, this one is highly personal. I speak with Dr Matt Starr, Specialist Plastic Surgeon, to explore this topic further and talk about some of the myths about nipple reconstruction after a skin-sparing mastectomy to help you make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you. We talk about:Types of nipple reconstructionWhen it can be...2024-09-151h 13
Rewritten MeBloom43: a new era in breast surgery prep & prehabWhat if there was something you could proactively do before breast surgery to help reduce the risk of complications and support healing? Something that’s drug-free and simple to do at home with minimal effort. Bloom43 is a wearable device designed to gently warm the skin, which patients can place in their bra the night before surgery. Developed by reconstructive plastic surgeon, Dr Saahil Mehta, it’s been shown to reduce healing complications, hospital stay, outpatient follow-up and re-operation rates. I talk to Dr. Saahil and Carly Moosah...2024-08-281h 04
Rewritten MeTNBC, BRCA, DIEP - WTF?!From shock diagnosis to choosing a reconstruction surgeon. Bec didn’t think for one minute that the lump in her breast was cancer. After the shock of being diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer, she was stunned when genetic testing revealed a mutation (as she has no family history of breast cancer). That kicked off an intense treatment plan. But the hardest part for Bec was choosing a reconstruction surgeon.Hear how Bec overcame the challenges of one shock after the next and found a plastic surgeon that was rig...2024-08-071h 11
Rewritten MeFeedback, complaints & complimentsAre you concerned about your FRACS Surgeon’s behaviour? Here’s how you can give purposeful feedback to help future patients. Historically, it was accepted that some surgeons had great surgical skills but poor bedside manners. However, research now shows a direct link between poor communication and patient complications. Luan talks to A/Prof Rhea Liang, General and Breast Surgeon, about the RACS (Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) and its Operate with Respect project, focusing on patient outcomes and rights. Through RACS, you can provide feedback about a surge...2024-07-2445 min
Rewritten MeFREE the prosthetic nipple!Discover a pioneering post-mastectomy nipple option that you might not know about!If you've lost your nipple(s) as part of breast cancer surgery and are looking for non-surgical options, this episode is for you. Niki Crillo from Procosmediq is a pioneer in Australia, a medical tattooist and silicone prosthesis artisan who handmakes custom prosthetic nipples. She molds and colour-matches each piece, providing a realistic alternative to surgical reconstruction. However, due to their incredibly realistic appearance, these prosthetic nipples are often censored on social media, making them harder to...2024-07-1257 min
Rewritten MeMy version of reconstruction changed my lifeAllison Gordon Parry wanted a DIEP flap reconstruction following her mastectomy. After she was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, her priorities changed - “time is short, I’ve got other things to do!”. Still, she grieved for the reconstruction she’d wanted. Her body was a daily reminder of what she’d lost – flat on one side and her natural ‘G’ cup breast on the other. The breast surgery she eventually had changed her life. Allison felt beautiful and ‘whole’ again – wearing pretty bras, and swimming and dancing in Ibiza without feeling self-conscious...2024-06-271h 02
Rewritten MeHow Netflix helped me recover from surgeryKaty Morrison was left with a single 20DD breast that caused her severe back pain after she was denied reconstruction at the time of her mastectomy because she had incurable breast cancer. Katy advocated for a breast reconstruction*. And in this episode, she shares how her reconstruction and reduction surgery immediately relieved her back pain. Katy’s recovery from breast surgery was tougher than she expected, and she developed a blood infection. She found herself in a physical and mental "hole" barely recognising herself and relying heavily on strong medication. 2024-06-1249 min
Rewritten MeDIEP dive: the basics of abdominal-based flap reconstructionDIEP flap reconstruction is called the ‘gold standard’ of reconstruction after mastectomy – but is it the gold standard for everyone?Whether you’re considering DIEP breast reconstruction or have had DIEP breast surgery, this episode is for you. It's for your loved ones too as it'll help them understand how they can support you. In this episode Luan talks with Dr Beryl Tan, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, who specialise in DIEP. They talk about the basics of DIEP and what it involves, from pre-op preparation for first phase surgery to...2024-05-291h 05
Rewritten MeMDTs and patient-centred careWhat does MDT mean? How do they work for patients? Are there breast reconstruction MDTs? As a patient, learning medical acronyms can be like learning a new language! In this episode, Luan talks to A/Prof Rhea Liang ,General and Breast Surgeon, about MDTs (Multidisciplinary Team meetings) and their importance in breast cancer treatment. An MDT can feel like a mysterious behind-the-scenes meeting where your future is decided without you having a say. Dr Rhea explains how MDTs bring together various healthcare professionals to c...2024-05-0838 min
Rewritten MeBras & prosthesis after surgery for breast cancerFind a bra that hugs you! What bras can you wear after surgery for breast cancer? And when can you wear an underwire bra? Finding the right bra fit is crucial for post-surgery recovery and can have a positive impact on a person's confidence and well-being. Bras can also help create symmetry after reconstruction, with options such balance shapers and bralettes. But what should you look for if you don’t have access to a bra fitter? In this episode, Luan talks to Gillia...2024-04-231h 15
Rewritten MeMastectomy & metastatic breast cancerThis is a story of “balls to the wall” self-advocacy, tiptoeing around surgeons' offices and swimming in circles!Trigger warning: this podcast contains discussions about metastatic breast cancer, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners.In this episode the wonderful Katy Morrison shares with us the shock of her stage four (metastatic) breast cancer diagnosis, and her experience of living with the disease including the challenges she’s faced advocating for herself.Katy talks about her decision to have a mastectomy after it was initially recommended by her breast...2024-04-1048 min
Rewritten MeWhat about aesthetic flat closure?Welcome to season 2!In the first episode of this new season, Luan talks to Specialist Breast Surgeon, Dr Kylie Snook, about aesthetic flat closure. Also known as optimal flat closure or ‘going flat’, it is a reconstruction option that can be considered alongside implant and autologous/‘own tissue’ reconstruction after mastectomy.Taken from an Instagram Breast Recon 101 Live Q&A session, Luan and Dr Kylie’s discussion provides valuable insights for women considering aesthetic flat closure, including:Impact of previous surgeries & treatmentsEffect on chest shape & perspectiveRecovery time compared to breast rec...2024-03-2743 min
Rewritten MeAdvocating to 'go flat' after implantsRobyn has the BRCA2 variant and had a risk-reducing mastectomy with implant-based reconstruction in 2019. She experienced side effects that impacted her quality of life and made the decision to have the implants removed and ‘go flat’. When a plastic surgeon told Robyn that she would look “aesthetically unpleasing”, she knew she had to self-advocate.Robyn's story is one of courage - to challenge and re-think her own initial reconstruction choice and then to stand up for what was right for her and her health.Luan and Robyn talk about:Heredit...2023-12-0654 min
Rewritten MeBRA-va art and Foobs & FitnessBRA-va art is a first-of-its-kind global Instagram campaign that uses exercise to promote BRA Day (Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day). Luan launched the campaign in 2022 and Rori Zura picked up the BRA-va art baton when she ran around New York in a pink striped ‘where’s Waldo’ top as she made BRA-va art! Rori has always been a fitness enthusiast. When she was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer during COVID, exercise was a key concern and topic of discussion with her surgeon. They encouraged Rori to keep moving to support her treatment. This advice was surpris...2023-10-0353 min
Our Scars Speak26. Luan Lawrenson-Woods, DIEP Flap Recipient, Sydney, Australian Patient Advocate, and Podcaster of Rewritten Me, & Founder of BRA-va ArtLuan Lawrenson-Woods, DIEP Flap Recipient, Sydney, Australian Patient Advocate, and Podcaster of Rewritten Me, which is Australia's first podcast regarding reconstruction after mastectomy and Founder of BRA-va Art, shares her breast cancer journey and what led her to become a tenacious advocate. Luan explains that her unique breast cancer diagnosis and experience with certain medical professionals led her to speak boldly in hopes of helping others. Lastly, she explains BRA-va Art and their upcoming project that includes a challenge with Foobs and Fitness that will consist of prizes from a well-known lingerie company within the breast cancer community.
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Cancer CultureS2, EP 7. Luan Lawrenson-Woods (Breast Cancer, BRA-va Art & Rewritten Me)In this episode of Cancer Culture, we introduce you to Luan Lawrenson-Woods, a self-employed patient advocate based in Sydney, Australia. Luan's journey is a powerful testament to the transformative role of resilience and the impact of social media in cancer advocacy. Luan's work as a patient advocate revolves around creating content that educates and supports those affected by breast cancer and reconstruction. She's also a volunteer peer mentor and the host of Australia's first podcast on reconstruction after mastectomy, "Rewritten Me."Luan's innovative initiative, "BRA-va Art," leverages Strava Art to raise awareness of Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day. Luan's battle with...2023-09-2955 min
Rewritten MeThe good & bad of social mediaThere's lots of free information about breast cancer and reconstruction on Instagram. But how do you know it’s factually correct? Dr Liz O’Riordan is known as the breast surgeon who has breast cancer. Liz talks about why she uses Instagram to create evidence-based content about breast cancer and how you can check the accuracy of online information. And she talks about how even she found it difficult to ask her doctor about a information she'd seen on social media.If you’re a patient, advocate or medical professional who uses social...2023-09-1951 min
Breaking Brave with Marilyn BarefootLUAN LAWRENSON-WOODS on her battle with breast cancer, mastectomy, breast reconstruction, and REWRITING her life as podcast creator and host of Rewritten Me.In 2017 Luan Lawrenson-Woods was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was absolutely devastated to learn she needed a mastectomy. She had no idea about the different types of reconstruction and didn't know anyone who'd had a reconstruction.As a result, Luan created a community that supports and empowers women who want to know more about reconstruction after a mastectomy so that they can feel confident in their choices."Hearing about reconstruction options gave me hope that I could be 'me' again, and in 2019 I had a DIEP flap reconstruction when tissue was taken from my tummy...2023-08-2458 min
Rewritten MeHaving a baby after implant reconstructionNatasha Cauchi was 29 when she was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. As part of her treatment she had a double mastectomy with implant reconstruction. Three years later Tash and her husband decided to try for a baby. Chemotherapy can affect fertility and Tash was in early menopause. She had IVF, which was unsuccessful. Then she became pregnant naturally! While the arrival of baby Oliver is joyous, Tash shares how she feels grief and sadness that she can’t breastfeed. Tash also talks about how she needed to advocate, especially when a nu...2023-08-2459 min
Rewritten MeMedicare and private health coverWhat does Medicare cover for breast reconstruction? What do you need to consider if you choose to be treated privately? The two different systems in Australia – public and private – can be confusing, and potential financial costs of reconstruction can cause anxiety. It can also be an awkward discussion to have with your team. In this episode Luan talks to Specialist Breast Surgeon and President of BreastSurgANZ, Dr Melanie Walker, about how to navigate finances. Luan and Dr Melanie talk about whether Medicare covers:All types of reconst...2023-08-0856 min
Rewritten MeWhy consult both a breast & plastic surgeon?It isn't vain to want your breast/s reconstructed after a mastectomy. Some women choose not to reconstruct because they think it's cosmetic. And some women aren't given the option to reconstruct.Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon, Dr Kirstin Miteff, talks about consulting both a breast surgeon and a reconstructive plastic surgeon when you research your reconstruction options.Dr Kirstin also talks about how a referral to a plastic surgeon at the time of a breast cancer diagnosis may reduce the reconstruction timeline for some patients. Luan and Dr Kirstin also t...2023-07-271h 09
Rewritten MeUnder & over the muscle implantsWhen it comes to implant-based reconstruction, you might hear the terms UTM and OTM. But what do they mean and why might you choose one over the other? Luan talks to one of Australia’s leading consultant breast surgeons, Associate Professor Sanjay Warrier, about under and over the muscle implants, including: What’s involved for UTM & OTMWhat might dictate your decisionThe benefits of eachAcellular dermal matrixUTM dual plane techniqueOTM two staged approach with expandersExercise after UTM/OTMWhat happens if you have a port?What about radiotherapy?Potential complications of eachHow these can be addressed (eg rip...2023-07-1045 min
Rewritten MeBreast Advocate decision-making appIn Rewritten Me’s first ever ‘extra’ episode, Luan talks to Dr Minas Chrysopoulo who devised the Breast Advocate® app. Breast Advocate® is the world's first shared decision-making app for breast cancer surgery and breast reconstruction. It's the app that helped Dr Sandy Minck when she was researching her risk reduction surgery (episode 8). Dr C, as he’s known, is an American-based board-certified surgeon and micro surgeon who co-created the Breast Advocate® with patient advocates and leading specialists. Listen in to find out how the app’s easy-to-use wiza...2023-06-2739 min
Rewritten MeInformed risk reduction decision-makingThe results from a routine mammogram in 2022 led to a whirlwind of investigative tests for Dr Sandy Minck. Sandy was diagnosed with lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) and found out she carries the CHEK2 genetic variant. She also had dense breast tissue. This all contributed to an increased risk of breast cancer.Sandy’s mother died of breast cancer. When Sandy researched what options she had to minimise her own risk, she was aware that her decision-making was very emotive. She sought evidence-based opinions but, even as a non-practicing GP with a high level of health lit...2023-06-1944 min
Rewritten MeFrom implants to DIEP flapIt’s important to decide what reconstruction is right for you at the time. However, over time things can change, such as life priorities, work commitments and childcare responsibilities. So too can the results of your reconstruction. Kylie Lynch had multiple surgeries to achieve a bilateral implant-based reconstruction following her diagnosis of invasive mucinous and ductal carcinoma with extensive lymphovascular invasion. Seven years later Kylie had an autologous ‘flap’ reconstruction because the long-term effects of radiotherapy had caused capsular contracture around one of her implants. Luan talks to Kylie about why she chos...2023-06-0549 min
Rewritten MeOwning your worthWhat does it mean to be a patient advocate and to ‘own your worth’? When Terri Coutee received her second diagnosis for breast cancer she was mistakenly diagnosed with incurable metastatic disease. This prompted her to blog about her experience and advocate for others. Luan and Terri talk about how Terri went on to set up not-for-profit DIEPC Foundation, and create a 24/7 library of educational resources to help those affected by breast cancer make an informed decision about reconstruction after a mastectomy. Be sure to listen out for the...2023-05-2456 min
Rewritten MeFeeling & sensation after breast reconstructionHear about new techniques being used to try to preserve and restore feeling and sensation in the breast after reconstruction. “That [extra] 20 minutes is this woman’s entire lifetime of [breast] sensation,” A/Prof Cindy Mak. Loss of feeling after a mastectomy and reconstruction is a concern for many women. Luan talks to A/Prof Cindy Mak & Dr Joe Dusseldorp about techniques they’re using to preserve and reconstruct nerves. They also share the results of these surgeries: listen out for my "wow” jaw-drop when...2023-05-0842 min
Rewritten MeAlternative 'flap' optionsWhat other options are available if you want an ‘own tissue’ reconstruction, but you aren’t a candidate for DIEP flap? Some women may not have enough tummy tissue for a DIEP. Others may have previously had abdominoplasty, or a DIEP reconstruction that didn’t work out. Dr Bish Soliman is an internationally trained Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon who specialises in complex microsurgical reconstruction, such as ‘own tissue’ or ‘flap’ reconstructions. Luan talks to Dr Bish about the alternatives to DIEP, including the LAP flap, which is a relatively new...2023-04-2635 min
Rewritten MeTypes of mastectomyDid you know there were different kinds of mastectomies?In this pod Luan talks to Specialist Breast Surgeon, Dr Kylie Snook, about what a mastectomy is and why someone might have one. Luan and Dr Kylie talk about:Is all breast tissue removed?Nipple-sparing & skin-sparing mastectomiesMastectomy incisionsTissue expandersPreventative/risk reduction mastectomyBilateral & contralateral mastectomyLymph node biopsy Links for this pod:Dr Kylie is VP of BreastSurgANZWatch the IG Live ‘what to ask in your first appointment’ with Dr Kylie Where y...2023-04-1022 min
Rewritten MeFoods that can help you heal after surgeryWhat can you eat to help you heal well after reconstruction surgery? In this pod Luan talks to nutritionist, Associate Professor Teresa Mitchell-Paterson, about what food choices you can make to help support your recovery from surgery. Luan and Teresa talk about· Foods that may support wound healing· How you can hydrate after surgery· Foods to help with constipation· Can you have coffee?· What about chocolate?!· How to ease back into eating after your op Links for this pod· Where to find...2023-03-2854 min
Rewritten MeWhat’s strategy got to do with DIEP?Talking to your surgeon about what’s meaningful to you and what approaches, or strategies, they can take to help you achieve an optimal reconstruction is all part of shared decision-making. In the first episode of season one, Luan talks to reconstructive plastic surgeon, Dr Joe Dusseldorp, about the strategies he considers for DIEP flap reconstruction in relation to form and function of the breast/s and abdomen. Luan and Dr Joe talk about:- Nipple preservation- Desired breast size- Feeling in the breast and the tummy2023-03-0640 min
Rewritten MeBRA Day interviewThe 3rd Wednesday in October is Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day, or BRA Day as it's known! For BRA Day 2022 I sat down with reconstructive plastic surgeon, Dr Joe Dusseldorp (FRACS). Dr Joe specialises in breast reconstruction, particularly ‘own tissue’ reconstruction like DIEP flap reconstruction. He’s a medical innovator and personalised medicine advocate, and he led the first team in Australia and New Zealand to perform a robotic-assisted DIEP. In our chat we talk about:The difference between reconstructive plastic surgeons and breast surgeons;What breast reconstruction is;The main types of...2022-12-2214 min
Rewritten MeFrom Unwritten to Rewritten MeIn this first episode, I share how devastating it was to be told I needed a mastectomy and how I’ve gone from being the star of the Unwritten Me Sh!tshow to hosting the Rewritten Me podcast.I talk about my breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and surgeries, as well some of the little talked about side effects of my DIEP reconstruction, like the ‘Ken Doll’ (oh, and my labi@ also gets an honourable mention!).Listen in to hear how on Rewritten Me I’ll be talking to healthcare professionals along with women from the...2022-12-1817 min
Dear Menopause25: Luan Lawrenson-Woods: Breast Reconstruction Awareness with BRA-va ArtLuan Lawrenson-Woods is my guest to chat about a first-of-its-kind Instagram campaign being launched to raise awareness for BRA Day 2022 (Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day).The campaign, created by Luan, aims to raise awareness of breast reconstruction options and promote BRA Day on October 19. Luan is encouraging people to use Strava (the free digital exercise app) to exercise along a route, making GPS ‘art’ - known as Strava Art - that visually represents BRA Day and share it with the official BRA-va Art Instagram account.This is the first time in Australia that Strava Art...2022-09-2919 minDear Menopause14: Luan Lawrenson-Woods: Menopause after cancer and the importance of self advocacyDo you want to take away the guess work of perimenopause and menopause, save yourself time and energy and ditch the shame? Working with me you learn what's happening to you physically, mentally and emotionally, why and what you can do about it. Go to stellarwomen.com.au/stellar-circle/ to find out more.Luan Lawrenson-Woods is a woman that took a shitty situation, did the work and then immediately looked for opportunities to support the women coming up behind her. Having endured a cancer diagnosis, chemotherapy, multiple surgeries, medical menopause, preventative surgery to remove her ovaries and...2022-07-1443 min
DiepCJourney PodcastEpisode 11: Patient Advocacy: Global Connections in Breast ReconstructionWhen you think about how you became an informed patient regarding breast reconstruction, was it by talking to other patients or through a consult with your plastic reconstructive surgeon? In this episode of the DiepCJourney Podcast, the discussion with two patient advocates and two internationally recognized microsurgeons reveals the power of global connections in breast reconstruction for patients and the importance of curating content based on best evidence and supportive patient care. My guests, Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Dr. Joe Dusseldorp, and Minas Chrysopoulo, MD, FACS explain how we have all become connected through social media. The information we...2022-06-011h 03