Today, I’m joined by Karen Verrill, Centre Head at Maggie’s Newcastle, who shares her vast experience and wisdom from over 20 years working in cancer care.

Karen began her nursing career across A&E, operating theatres, intensive care and hospices in hospitals throughout Newcastle and North Tyneside. For the past two decades, she has specialised in cancer care, with a strong belief in the power of professionally moderated peer support.

In this episode, Karen explains what Maggie’s is, why it feels so different from a hospital environment, and how it provides a safe, non-clinical space for anyone affected by cancer. We explore the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis, the importance of support during and after treatment, and why no one should feel they have to face cancer alone.

Karen also shares powerful insights into peer support groups, the challenges people face once treatment ends, and the wide range of practical, emotional and psychological support available at Maggie’s. She discusses hair loss, body image, identity, and the often-overlooked emotional recovery that follows active treatment.

Finally, Karen tells the inspiring story behind Maggie’s Centres and the incredible legacy of Maggie Keswick Jencks.

This is an essential listen for anyone affected by cancer, supporting someone with cancer, or wanting to better understand how compassionate, holistic support can make a life-changing difference.

Find out more about Maggie’s:

Website: https://www.maggies.org

Maggie’s Newcastle (Freeman Hospital):

Phone: 0191 223 6600

Drop-in: Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm

Connect with Karen:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-verrill-22726580/

Connect with Nicola:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/

The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Today, I’m joined by Nicola George, a mother of four, business owner, and breast cancer advocate, who shares her experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer at 40.

Nicola’s diagnosis included triple-negative breast cancer and a separate HER2-positive tumour, requiring multiple treatment approaches including chemotherapy, surgery, and a hysterectomy.

Throughout her treatment, Nicola documented her experiences on The Shitty Titties Breast Cancer Blog, providing honest insight into the realities of cancer treatment and supporting other young women navigating similar challenges.

In this episode, Nicola discusses her journey through treatment, family impact, surgical menopause, and life after cancer. She also reflects on how her experience influenced her confidence, personal priorities, and career, including expanding her childcare business.

(Please note: this episode was recorded in 2023)

Connect with Nicola George:

Facebook: Shitty Titties Breast Cancer Blog

Connect with Nicola Wood:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/

The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Today, I'm joined by Janet Doyle, Hair Loss Consultant at The Wonderful Wig Company, who shares her expert insights into supporting individuals through hair loss.

Janet is a highly experienced hair professional with 47 years of experience in the industry. She has worked in salons, colleges, hospitals, and hospices, and has dedicated her career to helping clients regain confidence and feel like themselves again.

In this episode, Janet talks about the emotional journey many clients face when experiencing hair loss, what to expect during a consultation, and the importance of creating a safe, supportive environment.

She also shares her work with Look Good Feel Better and her role in a new Alopecia UK support group, providing community, guidance, and reassurance for those affected by hair loss.

Connect with Nicola:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/

Website: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Today, I’m joined by Wendy Tarplee-Morris MBE, Co-founder and Director of Service and Impact at The Little Princess Trust, who shares how the loss of her daughter Hannah led to the creation of one of the UK’s most recognised children’s charities.

In this emotional and uplifting episode, Wendy talks about Hannah’s story and how her family’s search for a realistic wig inspired a mission to help others facing hair loss.

She explains how the charity has grown from a small idea into a global organisation that provides thousands of wigs every year and funds vital childhood cancer research.

Wendy also reflects on what she has learned about resilience, compassion, and the healing power of community, showing how hope and love can truly transform even the most difficult of times.

Connect with Wendy:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-tarplee-morris-6464b043/

Website: https://www.littleprincesses.org.uk/

Connect with Nicola:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/

The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Today, I’m joined by award-winning entrepreneur Nickie Gott OBE, who shares her remarkable story of resilience, reinvention, and hope.

Nickie is a highly respected businesswoman and advocate for women in enterprise, recognised with an OBE in 2016 for her services to female entrepreneurship in the North East. In 2007, just weeks after being named North East Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, her life changed overnight when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

In this heartfelt episode, Nickie reflects on the shock of her diagnosis, the reality of juggling treatment while running a thriving business, and the challenges she faced in the years that followed, including serious illness, loss, and rebuilding her life from scratch.

She speaks openly about body image after her mastectomy, learning to accept help, and finding purpose again through mentoring and supporting others.

Now working as a business consultant and mentor, Nickie continues to champion women in business with empathy and passion.

Connect with Nickie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickie-g-4bb2031/

Connect with Nicola:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/

The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Recommended organisations:

Cancer Research UK Business Beats Cancer NE: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/get-involved/volunteer/help-us-raise-money/business-beats-cancer/business-beats-cancer-north-east

Today, I’m joined by Celia Samater, whose cancer diagnosis in 2017 completely changed the course of her life.

At the time, Celia was living her dream life in Saudi Arabia with her family when she was suddenly faced with a breast cancer diagnosis that made her stop and re-evaluate everything. She thought she knew about success, purpose and identity.

In this inspiring conversation, Celia shares how her experience led her to retrain as a life coach and cancer counsellor, helping others find strength, hope and clarity during life’s toughest moments. Now back in the UK, she combines her coaching work with her role at the University of Sunderland, supporting students to build confidence, resilience and direction.

Celia opens up about the moment everything changed, the challenges of her treatment journey, and how the unwavering love of her family and friends helped her rebuild and redefine her purpose.

*(Please note: this episode was recorded in 2023)

Connect with Celia:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celiasamater/

Sisterhood for Success: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sisterhood-for-success/

Connect with Nicola:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/

The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Booking a hair loss consultation can feel overwhelming, especially given the personal challenges that often lead to it.

Today, I'm joined by Karen Young, Style Director at The Wonderful Wig Company, who brings over 30 years of experience in the hair and wig industry and has been part of the company since its earliest days. Karen shares how she works to make every client’s experience as comfortable, supportive, and reassuring as possible.

We explore the emotional journey many clients face when dealing with hair loss, what to expect during a consultation, and why creating a compassionate, judgement-free environment is essential. Karen also shares stories from her three decades in the industry, the highs, the challenges, and the deep personal connections that make her work so meaningful.

This episode offers insight, empathy, and practical guidance for anyone experiencing hair loss or supporting someone who is.

Connect with Karen:

Website: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Connect with Nicola:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/

The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Today, I'm joined by Cancer Rehabilitation Practitioner Caroline Tweedie, who shares her expert insights into supporting individuals on their cancer journey.

Caroline is not only a dedicated cancer rehab specialist but also a qualified personal trainer with a deep interest in how fitness can play a powerful role in both treatment and recovery. In this episode, she talks about research on exercise and cancer and explains why staying active is so vital before, during and after treatment.

With over 17 years of experience as a breast cancer specialist nurse, Caroline has supported countless patients through the emotional and physical challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. She offers practical advice on navigating this life-changing diagnosis, from building resilience to embracing your identity.

(Please note: this episode was recorded in 2023)

Connect with Nicola:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/

The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

References:

Liz O’Riordan: https://liz.oriordan.co.uk/

Patient Cancer Series Podcast: https://www.gatesheadhealth.nhs.uk/news/launch-of-cancer-podcast-series/

Balance North East: https://www.fresh-balance.co.uk/balance/