S6 Ep16: Hayley on drawing the breast cancer experience

Hayley Gullen is an illustrator who was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 37.  In this episode of the Breast Cancer Now podcast, Hayley talks to Laura about her graphic memoir ‘This Might Surprise You’. She talks about why she decided to write a graphic memoir, and how she used her illustrations to express her identity whilst going through the “dehumanising” experience of breast cancer treatment.

The conversation also goes into how Hayley’s book covers the ups and downs of a breast cancer diagnosis, from the painful, grim experiences to some of the more absurd and hopeful moments. Hayley talks about the importance of self-expression and using this to connect with others, and how she hopes her book will act as a companion for other people facing treatment, helping them feel less alone.

You can find Hayley on Instagram @hayleygullen

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Key Topics:
2:00 Hayley talks about her history of drawing
3:26 Hayley's book, This May Surprise You
6:50 Hayley is diagnosed with breast cancer
11:52 The impact of breast cancer on Hayley's life
13:37 Drawing the relatable parts of the breast cancer experience
24:07 Hayley's history of writing
30:30 Finding humour in the difficult times
32:32 Looking after a young child alongside a breast cancer diagnosis
37:20 Feeling guilty during breast cancer
39:43 Breast cancer and mental health
43:20 Taking the book to the public
49:52 Meeting other people in the cancer community
50:54 Reflecting on the cancer experience
52:02 Hayley's next book
53:17 What it means to Hayley to "live well"