Louise thompson, 34, former ‘Made in Chelsea’ star and co-host of the podcast ‘He Said, she Said,’ is opening up about her experiences growing up in Notting hill and her journey through significant health challenges. In 2021, thompson faced severe trauma during childbirth, requiring weeks of intensive care. Last year,in 2024,she publicly announced that she had been fitted with a stoma bag as part of her treatment for ulcerative colitis,raising awareness about inflammatory bowel disease. These events have shaped her perspective on life,resilience,and the importance of community.

thompson fondly recalls her childhood in Notting Hill,emphasizing the sense of community and vibrancy of the area. “I grew up in a townhouse in Notting Hill,” she said. “It was a fun area. I remember the carnival every year. We had a lot of friends who lived on our street, we had a communal garden. It was like something out of the movie Notting Hill. I think in fact they actually filmed some of the scenes in our garden – my parents got invited to the premiere.”

Notting Hill’s close-knit environment and cultural richness had a profound impact on Thompson’s early years. the communal garden, shared with neighbors, fostered a spirit of togetherness and collaboration, reflecting the values of the community. The annual carnival, a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, filled the streets with music, color, and joy, creating lasting memories and a deep recognition for diversity.

Despite her idyllic childhood, Thompson has faced significant health challenges in recent years. The trauma she experienced during childbirth in 2021, requiring weeks of intensive care, marked a turning point in her life. She also dealt with the complexities of ulcerative colitis.

Thompson’s openness about her health struggles has inspired many, demonstrating the importance of vulnerability and resilience. By sharing her experiences,she has helped to break down the stigma surrounding bowel conditions and encouraged others to seek help and support. Her advocacy work highlights the need for increased awareness and understanding of ulcerative colitis and other inflammatory bowel diseases.

Thompson emphasizes the significance of community and shared experiences in overcoming adversity. Her podcast, ‘He Said, She Said,’ co-hosted with her fiancé Ryan Libbey, provides a platform for open and honest conversations about relationships, parenthood, and mental health. By sharing their own challenges and triumphs, Thompson and Libbey create a space for listeners to connect, learn, and find support.

The experiences of individuals like Thompson highlights the critical role of community support networks in navigating health challenges and promoting overall well-being. Connecting with others who have shared similar experiences can provide a sense of belonging,validation,and hope,empowering individuals to overcome adversity and thrive. Resources like the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation offer valuable details, support groups, and advocacy initiatives for individuals and families affected by inflammatory bowel diseases.

Thompson continues to reside in London with her fiancé, Ryan Libbey, and their son, Leo.

Louise Thompson’s journey underscores the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the impact of sharing personal stories. From her idyllic childhood in Notting Hill to facing and navigating significant health challenges, Thompson’s experiences offer valuable lessons in overcoming adversity and finding strength in shared experiences. If you are looking to learn more about ulcerative colitis or related advocacy, consider visiting the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation website.

We sat down with Louise Thompson, former ‘Made in Chelsea’ star and podcaster, to discuss her Notting Hill childhood, health challenges, and her inspiring journey toward resilience.

Archyde News (Amelia stone, Senior health Correspondent): Louise, thank you for joining us. Let’s start with yoru early years. You’ve mentioned a vibrant childhood in Notting Hill. What are some of your most cherished memories from that time?

Louise Thompson: Thank you for having me, Amelia. Notting Hill was magical. Growing up in a townhouse with a communal garden was like something out of a film – and actually,parts of the movie *Notting Hill* were filmed in our garden! But beyond that,it was the overwhelming sense of community. The annual carnival was a sensory explosion – music, colors, food…it was an incredible experience every year. it definitely shaped my appreciation for diversity and community.

Amelia Stone: It sounds idyllic.That close-knit feeling is something many people crave.How did that sense of community influence you?

Louise Thompson: Hugely. It instilled in me the importance of connection and supporting each other. We were always outside, playing with the neighborhood kids in the garden. it fostered a sense of belonging that I still value today.

Amelia Stone: You’ve been incredibly open about the health challenges you’ve faced, including the trauma during childbirth and your ulcerative colitis diagnosis. What motivated you to share such personal experiences so publicly?

Louise Thompson: It wasn’t an easy decision,Amelia. But I realized that by being vulnerable, I could potentially help others feel less alone. Suffering in silence is incredibly isolating, especially with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.I realized that sharing my journey could break down the stigma and encourage others to seek support or treatment.

Amelia Stone: Your resilience is truly inspiring. How has your perspective on life changed since these experiences?

Louise Thompson: It’s made me appreciate every moment.I’ve learned the importance of prioritizing my mental and physical well-being. Perspective is everything. While the challenges have been immense, they’ve also instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and a commitment to living authentically.

Amelia Stone: You co-host the podcast ‘He Said, She Said’ with Ryan. how does that platform contribute to this sense of community and open conversation?

Louise Thompson: ‘He Said, She Said’ is our space to have honest and frequently enough uncomfortable conversations about relationships, mental health, and parenthood. We share our own experiences, the good and the bad, and hope that it resonates with listeners. It’s about creating a supportive surroundings where people feel comfortable discussing their own challenges and triumphs. We wont people to know they are not alone.

Amelia Stone: for our readers who might be going through similar health struggles, what advice would you offer?

Louise Thompson: Lean on your support system. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether it’s from family, friends, or professionals. Educate yourself about your condition and connect with others who understand what you’re going through. And most importantly, be kind to yourself. Healing takes time, and it’s okay to not be okay sometimes.Remember, You are stronger than you think.

Amelia Stone: Thank you, Louise, for your candor and inspiring story.It’s been a pleasure speaking with you.

Louise Thompson: Thank you, Amelia.

Louise Thompson’s journey underscores the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the impact of sharing personal stories. From her idyllic childhood in Notting Hill to facing and navigating significant health challenges, Thompson’s experiences offer valuable lessons in overcoming adversity and finding strength in shared experiences. If you are looking to learn more about ulcerative colitis or related advocacy, consider visiting the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation website.

Amelia stone: readers, what resonated most with you from Louise’s interview? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!