The New Fight Club – Cancer Survivor Shoot – Albany, NY Boudoir Photographer

I’m not sure who came up with this phrase – but the second I saw it I knew it would be the title of this very special blog post.

If you’ve been following me on facebook you’ve seen the buzz about my event for cancer Survivors.   Incredible. Powerful. Uplifting. Emotional. Just a few words that describe the   dynamics that took place last weekend.   What started as an idea between stylist Erica Sherman( Jean Paul Spa and Salon Albany, NY) and myself soon became a reality with 5 amazing women.

Our original idea started with breast cancer.   But we soon realized any woman having fought the cancer fight deserved to shine and be pampered. I contacted the owner of the Morgan State House,  a gorgeous Bed and Breakfast on State Street in Albany, NY,  and started talking dates.   That followed with phone calls and messages to area stylists. I was thrilled at the responses. There were so many that wanted to be involved, and even a few that rearrange their schedules to be there.  I was honored that the talented Erica Sherman, Destiny Slover (Lipstick Beauty Lounge), Ruth Dollery  (Studio Orlo Hair Design), and Kate Fox (Four Star Salon Service) would be joining me.

Facebook was the next piece.  I had already started hinting that an event to “give back”  was on the way.  Within hours of my announcement and request for cancer survivors,  my schedule was full.   As I told them, all they needed to do was grab a friend, or someone important to them – an outfit they loved, and show up at 10 am.  The rest would be handled by us!  Chuck Kuhtic – the owner of the Morgan State House – graciously donated the space.  I provided beverages and appetizers – and of course the talented stylists donated all the makeup, hair products and lashes we needed!

A few days before I received an email from Ben Pliss of Ben Pliss Media.  As we chatted about other topics, a light went off.  I filled him in on the upcoming event.  I asked him if he would be interested in donating video work to help capture the energy of the day.  Immediately he was on board.  Ben’s mom is a breast cancer survivor.

This is a day I will never forget.  I witnessed these incredible women sharing their stories, bonding with one another, and feeling beautiful.   I fought the tears at many moments, especially when they hugged me.  The hugs felt so powerful,  that I swear they touched my soul.   I could write forever – but instead I will let you see for yourself the beauty of that day.

Enjoy the video and the images … xxoo

CANCER SURVIVOR VIDEO — click!!!

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3 Responses

  1. Wendy Montesanti

    What a beautiful group of ladies, inside and out. Keep fighting and showing the world how strong and fabulous you all are.

  2. Theresa Potter

    What a beautiful idea. These women go through so much suffering with chemo and radiation as well as fear of the unknown . They deserve this pampering. Kudos to you.

  3. Johanna Arasin

    This is such an amazing idea! I’m on the survivorship committee for Students of Albany Against Cancer. Is there anyone I can get in touch with to invite these lovely ladies to walk the survivorship lap at UAlbany’s Relay for Life this year?