Recovering from a brain aneurysm isn’t only about the physical journey, it’s also about rebuilding emotional confidence. In this inspiring episode, host Rebecca Middleton, founder of Hereditary Brain Aneurysm Support, is joined by Andy, who shares his personal story with honesty, humour and optimism, reflecting on how recovery has shaped his outlook and daily life. You’ll discover what recovery really looks like beyond the hospital walls, including the moments of doubt, resilience, and gratitude that follow a brain aneurysm diagnosis. The conversation explores how to regain confidence in everyday activities, recognise signs of progress, and find purpose through connection and self-belief. Andy opens up about the emotional impact of his experience, how support from HBA Support and others made a difference, and what’s helped him rebuild a positive mindset. You’ll learn practical ways to move forward, from small self-care routines that make recovery less daunting, to strategies that help manage lingering anxiety and uncertainty. Rebecca and Andy discuss the value of community, the importance of talking openly about the journey, and how hope can grow even in the most challenging times. Whether you’re recovering yourself, supporting someone close to you, or simply looking for reassurance about what comes next, this conversation offers encouragement, warmth, and practical insights for life after a brain aneurysm. Episode highlights: [00:00] Intro from HBA Support founder, Rebecca Middleton [00:47] The moment everything changed for Andy [04:49] Andy’s brain aneurysm recovery journey  [07:23] Emotional as well as physical challenges [09:06] Rebecca explains what a subarachnoid haemorrhage is [09:55] While Andy found NHS support lacking, HBA Support is invaluable [12:17] Andy’s advice for those starting their brain aneurysm journey [14:39] Helpful links and contact details from Rebecca   Featuring:Rebecca Middleton (host) & Andy (guest) Resources:HBA Support https://hbasupport.org This podcast is also available as a captioned video at youtube.com/@hbasupport Podcast production & editing by Rob Birnie at Made by DBM https://madebydbm.com/podcasts

Health anxiety after a brain aneurysm diagnosis is very understandable, but it can be managed. In this uplifting episode, Rebecca Middleton from Hereditary Brain Aneurysm Support is joined by Kym Winter, a psychotherapist and founder/clinical director of Rareminds, to share practical ways to move from worry towards confidence, resilience and hope. In this episode of Brain Aneurysms and Beyond, you’ll discover how to recognise anxiety early, understand why it shows up, and use practical tools to reduce its grip. You’ll find out how to build psychological “muscles” for coping, use simple techniques to “park” unhelpful worry, and reframe spiralling thoughts before they take over. The conversation looks at real-world challenges too: making screening decisions with clearer heads, easing family tensions that can follow a diagnosis, and offering age-appropriate reassurance for children. You’ll also hear how community and peer support through HBA Support reduces isolation, connects you with people who understand, and points you towards trustworthy information when anxiety spikes. Throughout, the emphasis is on hope and action. You’ll come away with practical ideas you can try today — from small self-care habits that calm the body, to mindset shifts that build long-term resilience. Whether you’re living with an aneurysm, supporting a loved one, or looking for reassurance about the future, this episode shows how anxiety can be acknowledged without letting it define the journey, and how support, knowledge and community can help you move forward with confidence. Episode highlights: [00:00] Intro with Rebecca Middleton from HBA Support  [01:07] Rebecca's aneurysm journey  [03:37] Help for overcoming fear in the early stages of diagnosis  [04:15] Developing psychological muscles to cope with anxiety  [06:40] Putting worry on the shelf  [08:40] The importance of community: you're not alone  [11:22] Coping with screening decisions  [17:31] Navigating family tensions  [24:55] Acknowledging health worries to move forward  [27:08] Treating yourself!  [29:45] Outro. Rebecca shares key resources and links for ongoing support   Featuring: Rebecca Middleton (host) & Kym Winter (Rareminds).  Resources: HBA Support: https://hbasupport.org Rareminds: https://www.rareminds.org This podcast is also available as a captioned video at youtube.com/@hbasupport Podcast production & editing by Rob Birnie at Made by DBM: https://madebydbm.com/podcasts  

How do you live well with a brain aneurysm, whether unruptured or recovering from treatment? We've got practical tips from two expert guests in this episode. Join host Rebecca Middleton, founder of Hereditary Brain Aneurysm Support, as she delves into living well with a brain aneurysm. In this episode, Rebecca, a brain aneurysm patient herself, speaks with Fiona Moss from The Natalie Kate Moss Trust and neurovascular nurse specialist Cat Lamb. You'll gain critical insights into the hidden prevalence of high blood pressure, affecting a third of the population (with half undiagnosed), and its growing impact across all ages, including children. Find out why regular blood pressure checks are vital – even if you feel healthy. Our guest experts offer practical advice on navigating everyday life with an aneurysm, from driving and flying to managing stress and making small, consistent lifestyle changes. This episode champions a "facts, not fear" approach, empowering you with the knowledge to take control of your health. Find more resources and our lifestyle guide at hbasupport.org