49: Stoma4Life with Raphaela Reeb - Episode 4949: Stoma4Life with Raphaela Reeb - Episode 49
UK Health Radio Podcast
Raphaela Reeb interviews Jill Castle, who swam the English Channel despite having a stoma. Jill shares her story of resilience and advocacy work.
46:12•2 Sept 2025
Jill Castle: Swimming Against the Tide
Episode Overview
- Jill Castle swam the English Channel, becoming the first person with a stoma to achieve this feat.
- Her charity, Chameleon Buddies, provides support and supplies for ostomates in Kenya.
- Jill's journey began with birth trauma, leading to her permanent stoma.
- She advocates for awareness around traumatic births and supports related charities.
- Her upcoming trek to Kilimanjaro aims to raise funds for a dedicated stoma wing in Kenya.
“The hardest thing about channel swim training is the fact that it's you and your brain, you and your mind, and that is it.”
What drives someone to take on challenges that seem impossible? In this gripping episode, Raphaela Reeb chats with Jill Castle, a woman who defied all odds to swim the English Channel, becoming the first person with a stoma to do so. Jill's journey is not just about breaking records but about embracing life and overcoming adversity. From birth trauma to founding a charity, Jill's story is a testament to resilience and courage.
She shares how she faced her fears head-on and transformed them into a powerful narrative of hope and determination. Jill's advocacy work, including her charity Chameleon Buddies, supports people with stomas in Kenya, providing supplies and peer support. Her upcoming trek to Kilimanjaro aims to further raise awareness and funds for women affected by traumatic births. Jill's tale encourages listeners to find strength in unexpected places and reminds us that life's challenges can be met with grit and purpose.
Are you ready to be inspired by Jill's incredible journey?
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