Award-winning six figure business owner Kellie Williams, founder of EVOLVA Business Growth Collective, has spoken openly about the life changing health challenges that transformed not only her personal outlook but also the way she supports women in business.
Based in North Wales, Kellie had built a thriving business helping ambitious female founders grow and scale. But in 2023, what was meant to be a routine pre-operative appointment for a hysterectomy unexpectedly became the beginning of an entirely different journey.
During her pre-op assessment, doctors discovered her blood pressure was dangerously high. Following further investigations, she was diagnosed with the heart condition Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. Later that same year, after developing a tremor in her head, she was referred to a neurologist and diagnosed with generalised dystonic tremor.
Then came another devastating shock.
Following further scans, Kellie received a phone call that would change everything. Doctors had discovered a brain tumour attached to her optic nerve and positioned next to her pituitary gland.
“It felt overwhelming,” Kellie said. “You hear the words brain tumour and your world just stops for a moment. I had moments of fear and uncertainty, but I knew I had to focus on what I could control.”
Rather than allowing panic to take over, Kellie turned her focus toward future proofing her business, preparing systems, delegating responsibilities and creating stability ahead of major surgery.
In April 2024, she underwent endonasal surgery and stepped away from the business for almost three months. During her recovery, she also had to surrender her driving licence for six months and return her lease car.
“It was one of the hardest periods of my life because I had always been independent and in control,” she said. “I had to surrender, trust other people and accept support. That was a huge lesson for me.”
Despite the challenges, her business remained strong and continued operating as a six figure company.
Now, as she launches her newly rebranded business, EVOLVA Business Growth Collective, Kellie says the experience has changed her perspective both personally and professionally.
“I genuinely believe this experience made me a better person and a better business coach,” she said. “So many women build businesses that rely entirely on them. I learned first hand why creating systems, support and sustainable growth matters. None of us know what life is going to throw at us.”
Today, Kellie is on a mission to help more female founders build businesses that can evolve, adapt and continue to thrive, no matter what challenges life brings.
“I want women to know they are stronger than they think and that success does not have to come at the cost of themselves.”
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