Every once in a while you meet someone that impacts you so much that you don't look at your life the same way again. For me, this person is Belle. This past February, what Belle thought would be a routine check-up turned out to be her worst nightmare. After a handful of tests, her doctor told her that she had a severe and aggressive form of breast cancer. Months of heartache and pain followed, with a double mastectomy, chemotherapy, and reconstructive surgery.
Although this last year was an extremely rough time in her life, Belle's story has a happy ending and she is now cancer free. Belle's courage, strength, and joy are truly inspiring to everyone who meets her and her grace through such a difficult time is so admirable.
When Belle contacted me to take photos to document her story and create breast cancer awareness, I was honored. We started with taking happy, outdoor photos that expressed the joy she feels every day from simply being alive, and we ended with personal photos that convey her physical and emotional challenges faced throughout her experience with cancer.
Belle, thank you for showing us how beautiful life is. Your story is humbling, your courage inspiring, and your zest for life infectious.
