CTM Women Behind the Uniform: From Breast Care Specialist to Princess Belle

Zoe’s Story: Surgeon, Mother, Record-Breaker

This International Women’s Day, we are celebrating the incredible women working across our Health Board, like Zoe Barber, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon and Clinical Services Specialty Director for Breast Services at CTM UHB. Not only is Zoe a dedicated surgeon and a mother of twin daughters, but she is also a Guinness World Record holder.

Balancing the demands of a high-intensity medical career with motherhood is no small feat. Yet, Zoe takes on every challenge with determination. As a breast surgeon, she dedicates her life to improving patient care, leading breast services, and making a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer. But in October 2024, she took on an entirely different challenge - one that combined her love for running, her passion for her work, and her drive to inspire her daughters.

Zoe’s journey to breaking the record began with a simple conversation with her daughters after looking to enter the 2024 Cardiff Half Marathon:

“I was talking to the children about it, who are obsessed with princesses and dressing up, and said to them ‘Mummy’s going to be running a race, should I be a princess?’ But I was shocked when they told me ‘No mummy, princesses don’t run’. It made me really sad that they were only four and already thought that.

“I knew that I had to do it for them, and other little girls like them. To show them that you can be a princess and you can run, and that princesses can do anything.”

In Cardiff, Zoe set out to break a Guinness World Record as the fastest female to run a half marathon dressed as a cartoon character. Choosing to run as the princess Belle from Beauty and the Beast, Zoe not only completed the race in an astounding 1 hour, 41 minutes, and 57 seconds (shattering the previous record by over 10 minutes), but also sent a powerful message: princesses can be fast, determined and limitless.

Running for a Cause
Zoe’s record-breaking run wasn’t just about personal goals. She used her race as an opportunity to raise funds for The Snowdrop Breast Centre through the Cwm Taf Morgannwg NHS Charity. The state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment centre provides essential support and care for breast cancer patients, ensuring they receive treatment in a welcoming and comfortable environment.

In addition, Zoe also fundraised for METUPUK, a charity that advocates for those living with incurable secondary breast cancer. The funds she raised - over £2,500 - will support research and efforts to improve the quality of care for those affected by the disease.

The Power of Women Supporting Women
Zoe’s journey was made even more special with the support of her colleagues. Her Belle costume was handmade by Asmaa Al-Allak, the 2023 Great British Sewing Bee winner - who, like Zoe, is also a consultant breast surgeon at CTM UHB. This unique collaboration highlighted the power of women working together both inside and outside the workplace.

With a world record under her belt and a growing movement of support, Zoe continues to inspire those around her. Whether in the operating room, on the running track, or at home with her daughters, she shows the dedication, compassion and empowerment that embodies the spirit of International Women’s Day.

Zoe’s story is a testament to the incredible women within Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board - women who not only excel in their professional roles but also embrace their passions, push their limits, and pave the way for future generations.

This International Women’s Day, we encourage to think about your beyond your uniform; your passion, interests and ambitions.

What’s your ‘other side’? Do you have any colleagues who inspire you?

Why not get involved with CTM women behind the uniform - help us hear, value, and celebrate the voices of the several thousand women who work in CTM.

How to recognise:

• Seren CTM: Does someone you work with deserve a Seren CTM Award? Click here to send a Seren now!
• Take a moment to walk up to a colleague and let them know how they inspire you – support and kindness makes a huge difference!
• Follow our social media campaign - ‘CTM women behind the uniform’ on our staff and public social media channels, and please get involved.

05/03/2025