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Karen and Gift's powerful stories of living with Poland Syndrome will leave you moved and inspired. From opposite corners of the world - Devon, England and Uganda - these two remarkable women share their journeys through isolation, self-doubt, and ultimately toward acceptance and community.

The conversation begins with raw honesty about discovery. Karen has known about her Poland Syndrome since birth, affecting both her hand and chest, but spent years hiding her difference. Gift's realisation came with puberty, thrusting her into years of psychological struggle as she navigated school environments where her body was suddenly exposed and questioned. Both women speak candidly about the emotional toll of feeling different in a world obsessed with sameness.

Their lives changed dramatically when they participated in an inclusive fashion show organized by Birmingham Children's Hospital and PIP UK. For the first time, they met others who understood their experience without explanation. Karen, at 24, finally met someone else with Poland Syndrome - "It lifted something from me," she shares with emotion. Gift, on her first international journey, found a space where she could "let my heart out about my feelings and feel understood."

The discussion expands beyond personal stories to address broader issues - the fashion industry's claims of inclusivity versus reality, the challenges of finding clothing that fits uniquely different bodies, and the psychological impact of visible differences that medical professionals often overlook. Their wisdom for younger people with Poland Syndrome resonates powerfully: "Different is okay and beautiful," Gift emphasizes, while Karen adds, "It's not as bad as we think it is."

What emerges most clearly is the transformative power of community. Both women express deep gratitude for finding connection through PIP UK, emphasizing how shared understanding has helped them navigate difficult days. Listen as they remind us all that visible differences may shape our experiences, but need not define our lives. Join us in celebrating these voices that remind us: you are seen, you are heard, you are not alone.

Please follow the pod and rate the show and leave us a review, we would love to hear from you.

You can find out more about PIP-UK and Poland Syndrome on our website:

https://pip-uk.org/

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/polandsyndromepipuk/
https://www.facebook.com/pip.uk.org
https://www.linkedin.com/company/pip-uk/
https://twitter.com/Polandsyndromep
https://www.youtube.com/user/pipthecharity
https://www.tiktok.com/@polandsyndromepipuk

If you would like to appear on the podcast or share ideas for future topics, please get in touch pip.charity@gmail.com

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In this episode, we step into the spotlight with Caron Mills, a beacon of courage and confidence in her journey with Poland Syndrome. Join us as Caron shares her story of self-discovery, community, and the runway of resilience she's walked, just weeks before strutting her stuff in a groundbreaking fashion show dedicated to celebrating diversity.

**Episode Highlights:**

1. **Caron's Journey with Poland Syndrome:**
- Caron unfolds her tale of triumph over adversity, recounting her path through surgeries and self-acceptance with grace and determination.

2. **Embracing Self-Love:**
- Dive into Caron's reflections on embracing her uniqueness, finding beauty in her differences, and cultivating unshakeable confidence.

3. **Shining as a Role Model:**
- Discover how Caron has become a guiding light for others, illuminating the path to self-empowerment and acceptance.

4. **Volunteering for Change:**
- Explore Caron's journey as a volunteer, igniting change and hope within the Poland Syndrome community, one act of kindness at a time.

5. **Fashioning Awareness:**
- Join Caron on the runway of awareness as she shares her excitement and preparations for a groundbreaking fashion show dedicated to Poland Syndrome inclusivity.

6. **Kindness as Key:**
- Uncover the transformative power of kindness and community in Caron's journey, igniting sparks of compassion and connection.


Caron's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of self-love and community support. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who dare to walk their own runway of resilience.

**Outro:**
Thank you for tuning in to What about PS? A Poland Syndrome Podcast. If you found this episode as inspiring as we did, don't forget to subscribe and share it with your friends. Stay tuned for more captivating stories. After all, every journey is a runway waiting to be walked with courage and grace.

Please follow the pod and rate the show and leave us a review, we would love to hear from you.

You can find out more about PIP-UK and Poland Syndrome on our website:

https://pip-uk.org/

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/polandsyndromepipuk/
https://www.facebook.com/pip.uk.org
https://www.linkedin.com/company/pip-uk/
https://twitter.com/Polandsyndromep
https://www.youtube.com/user/pipthecharity
https://www.tiktok.com/@polandsyndromepipuk

If you would like to appear on the podcast or share ideas for future topics, please get in touch pip.charity@gmail.com

Send us a text

In this episode, we delve into Paul Preston's extraordinary journey, from a world of unfamiliarity to becoming a driving force in the Poland Syndrome community. Pauls world was forever changed when his son was born with Poland Syndrome. Join us as we explore his path of discovery, advocacy, and unity, ignited by the arrival of his son William in 2022.

**Episode Highlights:**

1. **A Father's Awakening:**
- Witness Paul's awakening to Poland Syndrome when his son enters the world, propelling him into a realm of newfound understanding and purpose.

2. **Guided by Support:**
- Discover how Paul and his wife Rachel found solace and guidance through PIP-UK, a beacon of support for families navigating the complexities of Poland Syndrome.

3. **Embracing the Community:**
- Follow Paul and Rachel's journey of embracing the Poland Syndrome community, transforming adversity into a mission of equality, togetherness, and acceptance.

4. **Advocacy in Action:**
- Explore Paul's tireless efforts in raising awareness, breaking stigmas, and fostering inclusivity within the Poland Syndrome community and beyond.

5. **Uniting Hearts and Minds:**
- Witness the power of unity as Paul and Rachel's advocacy work brings the Poland Syndrome community together, creating a tapestry of support and solidarity.

6. **PS Fest: Join Us!**
- Paul shares exciting details about PS Fest, happening on April 27-28th in Birmingham. From a fashion show to axe throwing, bouncy castles, talent shows, and evening entertainment featuring DJs and comedians, there's something for everyone.
- On the second day Dive into the festivities with morning activities at an urban farm and a family cinema showing, uniting families and individuals in celebration and camaraderie.

Sign up to attend here.

Paul's journey is a testament to the transformative power of love, community, and unwavering dedication. His story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, inviting all to join in the celebration of unity at PS Fest.

Thank you for joining us on What about PS? [Podcast Name]. If Paul's journey resonated with you, be sure to subscribe and share this episode. We invite you to join us at PS Fest on April 27-28th in Birmingham, where we'll celebrate diversity, resilience, and the spirit of togetherness. Stay tuned for more empowering stories and opportunities to make a difference.

Please follow the pod and rate the show and leave us a review, we would love to hear from you.

You can find out more about PIP-UK and Poland Syndrome on our website:

https://pip-uk.org/

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/polandsyndromepipuk/
https://www.facebook.com/pip.uk.org
https://www.linkedin.com/company/pip-uk/
https://twitter.com/Polandsyndromep
https://www.youtube.com/user/pipthecharity
https://www.tiktok.com/@polandsyndromepipuk

If you would like to appear on the podcast or share ideas for future topics, please get in touch pip.charity@gmail.com