Scotland's Women

"You're too fat to have a child. Go away and sort it out."Those words from a doctor could have ended HC Parker's dream of motherhood. Instead, they sparked an extraordinary journey that would test every limit of her strength and determination. Diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome at 20 and endometriosis at 30, HC was told children were unlikely. What followed was years of navigating a broken medical system, discovering hidden food intolerances that were sabotaging her fertility, and enduring the physical agony of a disease that left her bleeding through clothes at work and stranded on the couch in pain.Then came IVF—not once, but twice. The hormone injections. The life-threatening ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome that landed her five minutes from ICU. The heartbreak of a failed first round. And just when a viable embryo finally made it to the freezer, her marriage fell apart. Facing the biggest decision of her life, HC chose to go it alone. She fought through legal battles, rebuilt her body from medical menopause, and gave that frozen embryo the chance it deserved. Against 50% odds of surviving to pregnancy and 40% odds of making it to birth, a miracle happened.Today, HC is a proud solo mum and a fierce advocate for women navigating fertility struggles. Her story is raw, honest, and told with the kind of humour that only comes from someone who's been through hell and come out laughing.Fighting for Motherhood - Because every woman deserves to know she's not alone in this fight.Scotland's Women: Our Lives, Our StoriesEpisode coming soon.Follow HC: https://www.instagram.com/hcactivewomanfitness/Contact HC: https://hc-active-woman-fitnessPurchase HC Parker Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/IVF-My-Journey-Hc-Parker/dp/1068386002

In this special episode, we sit down with Hazel Somerville from NHS Forth Valley, Gender-Based Violence & Sexual Assault Service Lead for the SARCS centre in Larbert, to discuss a vital service that could save lives' to 'a vital service supporting anyone who has experienced rape or sexual assault - yet too many people still don't know it exists.SARCS (Sexual Assault Response and Coordination Service) is a dedicated NHS sexual assault service available across Scotland, providing compassionate, trauma-informed care for survivors of rape and sexual assault. Hazel takes us through the journey of how SARCS came to Scotland in 2019, transforming care from police stations to safe, health-led environments designed to support survivors at their most vulnerable.In this powerful conversation, we explore the groundbreaking introduction of self-referral in 2022, giving survivors choice and control over their journey. Hazel explains what happens when you contact SARCS and what to expect from a Forensic Medical Examination, why the 7-day window matters for forensic evidence collection, and how SARCS provides wraparound care with medical, emotional, and practical support all in one place. We discuss the stark reality that one in three women will experience sexual assault in their lifetime, and why breaking the silence and having open conversations about sexual violence is crucial.Hazel shares how survivors are put at the centre of their care, with choices about examiners, timing, and whether to report to police, and the importance of bringing a trusted friend or relative for support for those who wishes to. She reveals how the service has evolved by listening to survivors with lived experience, and shares the emotional reality of walking alongside survivors through their darkest moments and witnessing their journey toward healing. This isn't just about medical examinations - it's about restoring dignity, power, and hope.SARCS is available 24/7 across Scotland as a free and confidential service. Anyone aged 16 and over can self-refer, and you can access support whether or not you report to police. Forensic evidence can be collected and stored for up to 26 months while you decide your next steps. You can bring a trusted friend or relative with you, and you'll be treated with compassion, dignity, and respect at all times by healthcare professionals who are specially trained to support you. Help is available even if the assault happened more than 7 days ago.If you or someone you know needs support, contact SARCS at 0800 148 8888 - the helpline is available 24/7. You can also visit NHS Inform and search "SARCS" for more information. Whether you've experienced sexual assault recently or in the past, whether you're ready to report to police or unsure, whether you need medical care or just someone to talk to - SARCS is here for you. You are not alone. You will be believed. You deserve support.

Happy New Year Listeners!Scotland's Women welcomes Jean Fenwick, a midlife coach and hypnotherapist, for an inspiring New Year conversation about transformation, resilience, and finding your purpose. In this deeply personal episode, Jean shares her remarkable journey from high-powered corporate executive to burnout survivor to empowering coach for women navigating life's biggest transitions. Diagnosed with a rare condition (MRKH) at age 14 and told she'd never have children or marry, Jean spent decades proving the world wrong—but at a devastating cost.Discover how Jean transformed trauma into purpose, learning that true change isn't about adding more to your to-do list, but about letting go of what no longer serves you. She reveals why most New Year's resolutions fail by February, the power of asking "what's your why?", and why willpower alone will never get you where you want to go.Perfect for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or wondering "is this it?", this episode offers practical wisdom on setting meaningful goals, creating a "to-be" list instead of a to-do list, and choosing one word to guide your year. Jean's message is clear: no matter how hard things have been, transformation is possible when you do the inner work.Follow Jean : https://www.instagram.com/jeanfenwick.innerwealthcoach/Contact Jean: https://www.jeanfenwick.com

Scotland's Women chats with midlife coach Jean Fenwick for an inspiring New Year's episode about finding your purpose and creating meaningful change. Jean shares her transformational journey from corporate burnout to helping women navigate life's biggest transitions. Discover why most resolutions fail, the power of asking "what's your why?", and practical strategies for making 2026 your year of intentional change.Episode coming soon!Follow Jean : https://www.instagram.com/jeanfenwick.innerwealthcoach/Contact Jean: https://www.jeanfenwick.com

Unmasking Christmas Joy — Scotland’s Women Podcast Christmas EpisodeIn this special Christmas episode, Scotland’s Women welcomes Lauren, a dancer and fire performer, who shares her inspiring journey of self-acceptance after being diagnosed with ADHD. Lauren reflects on the true magic of Christmas—cherishing time with family and chosen loved ones, creating new traditions, and finding moments of peace and happiness. She describes the unique joy she experiences performing as an elf on a steam train, bringing smiles to children and adults, and how Christmas gives everyone permission to embrace their inner child.A central theme of this special episode is Lauren’s decision to stop masking her true self. After years of trying to fit in and hide her differences, her diagnosis empowered her to live authentically and celebrate her neurodivergence as a strength. No longer exhausted by pretending, Lauren now finds freedom and joy in being fully herself—at Christmas and every day. Her story is a heartwarming reminder to embrace who you are, find your own joy, and share it with others during the festive season. Be true to yourself, It's YOUR Christmas too! Follow Lauren's Journey: https://www.instagram.com/laurencmoore/Or get in touch : https://www.tiktok.com/@fireanddance

Discover the real stories behind Christmas in our special episode, “Unmasking Christmas Joy.” This episode explores the journey of unmasking—letting go of expectations, dropping the mask of perfection, and embracing authenticity, especially while living with ADHD. We listen to Lauren who shares how accepting what makes you different can become your greatest strength. From performing on a steam train to teaching dance and fire skills, she reveals how unmasking her true self has brought unexpected joy and encourages others to do the same. Tune in for honest conversation, practical advice, and a celebration of making Christmas—and life—your own.Christmas Episode Coming Soon! Follow Lauren: https://www.instagram.com/laurencmoore/Or get in touch: https://www.tiktok.com/@fireanddance