Show Notes
Today we’re joined by Ellyn, an inspiring entrepreneur who transformed her breast cancer experience into a force for positive change. A dynamic blend of wife, mother, marketing professional, mentor, and advocate, Ellyn shares her perspective one year into her breast cancer survival journey.
She is also the author of the bestselling book Flat Please Hold the Shame and co-creator of AskEllyn, the world’s first conversational AI designed to support people with breast cancer.
Find Ellyn’s story featured in People Magazine, Globe and Mail, CTV and the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
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In this episode, we discuss:
1:59 – Ellyn’s Story
Ellyn shares her breast cancer journey from diagnosis, through choosing a double mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation and the decision to remain flat.
7:03 – Flat Please and Hold the Shame
Ellyn began journaling as a way to make sense of her own experiences that led to writing an article in the Globe and Mail diving into the stigma surrounding mastectomies. Her article struck a chord and inspired Ellyn to write a book. Her goal was to not only share her personal story but also to help others find resources she she wished she had throughout her breast cancer journey.
12:01 – Remaining Flat
Ellyn opens up about her decision to remain flat following her double mastectomy and talks about the fact that the choice to remain flat is not always presented as a viable option for women with breast cancer.
22:20 – The Importance of Self Advocacy
Ellyn offers guidance on how to be a strong advocate for yourself, including understanding your rights for essential screenings and being informed about the density of your breast tissue.
27:36 – Ask Ellyn
AskEllyn is a groundbreaking conversational AI tool designed to be a resource for individuals and their families on their breast cancer journey. She aims to bridge the patient experience gap that currently exists in healthcare.
39:16 – The Photo Essay
Collaborating with photographer Hilary Gauld and Dense Breast Canada, Ellyn helped design the inspiring photos essay, “I Want You To Know“.
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