Monday, October 8, 2012

Belle: Breast Cancer Awareness Session

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.

belle01
belle02
belle03
belle04
belle05
belle06
belle07
belle08
belle09
belle010
belle011
belle012
belle013
belle014
belle015
belle016
belle017
belle018
belle019
belle020
belle021
belle022
belle023

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

You look beautiful Belle. You truly are a inspiration to us all. I lost my mother to breast cancer two years ago this month. I can't imagine everything that you have been through. Thank you for sharing your story. Your friend for life, Janet Bennett. Also the photography was very professionally done. Nice work.

Anonymous said...

Thanks, Janet...For all the support...Belle

Anonymous said...

Nicole ... The pictures are so beautiful and your words brought tears to my eyes...Thank You....Belle