One of my dear friends, Stephanie, has been fighting cancer for the past four years. As part of this struggle, she had to have a double Mastectomy performed less than two weeks ago. She was a very active international model with the Ford agency (based out of Edmonton) during her twenties. When she retired from the profession, she has continued modelling for the fun of her profession in the past 15 years both for fashion as well as art modelling,
Our mutual friend Kat and I decided we should attempt to raise about $500 for breast prosthesis within our photographic community in Calgary - a sum that Stephanie and family cannot afford to pay. The prosthetic breasts will allow her to feel normal before she can be scheduled for reconstructive breast surgery in a year's time when her body is sufficiently healed.
With this in mind, we decided to do a quick photo-shoot (done, in fact, earlier today). Stephanie's skin is extremely sensitive ... she used very little facial makeup. As you can suspect, she becomes tired very quickly even for a short photo shoot. Kat (a stylist) provided an excellent wardrobe. With these images, hopefully we can push our Facebook modelling / photographic community (very many of whom have worked with Stephanie) to raise the funds needed for her prosthetic breasts.
Here are a few shots taken today ... yes a bit graphic ... but life is not always about roses and lollipops. These images have only a bit of facial skin editing - anything more would be inappropriate.
p.1 #4 · Real Life .... sadness . Please support Stephanie.
I looked at the images before reading your description and I must say this was really striking on so many levels. Very powerful and yet classy... Congrats
p.1 #5 · Real Life .... sadness . Please support Stephanie.
For a striking model to do a shoot like this will inspire other women who have to endure to keep up with grace. And to dispel the stigmas. And that grace and courage is all the more beautiful. Stunning images.
Here's an interesting video that came up on Upworthy.com for nipple tattoos after reconstruction.
p.1 #7 · Real Life .... sadness . Please support Stephanie.
Words are failing me; your shots are well done, professional and moving. You did a top notch job handling a difficult issue in a very striking but humane way.
p.1 #11 · Real Life .... sadness . Please support Stephanie.
Wow, very powerful images. I'm sure it's not easy for any woman to go through this and I believe that it takes real strength and courage to make these images.
p.1 #14 · Real Life .... sadness . Please support Stephanie.
Very powerful photography and an empowering story. My own mother (and her mother) fought breast cancer also, so this "real life" theme is one close to my heart. Very best wishes and prayers for Stephanie.
p.1 #15 · Real Life .... sadness . Please support Stephanie.
Wow, it must be really hard for her, but the photos turn up to be amazing, I bet those photos can trully make a positive impact in people who dont take it seriously.
