09/24/2024
What is INSPIher?
A non-profit 501(c)(3) that is for Breast Cancer patients, in which we "document" their journey in photographs. This can be from start to finish, or anytime during their diagnosis.
We probably all know of someone who has or had Breast Cancer. It takes a toll. One thing that isn't really discussed is the "self view or self esteem" of those patients. It is extremely hard for those patients to see their body go though so much. It's often difficult to have and maintain confidence in themselves.
I've seen clients that come in right after a reconstruction surgery and fall apart because they didn't recognize what they see themselves. It can be devastating. It's one thing to see a reflection in a mirror, but then to see yourself in a still photograph - it can be overwhelming.
Although we cannot take this journey away from them, we cannot heal them - INSPIher can help them still see the true beauty that remains. Over the course of the last 2 years, I've had the pleasure of documenting 6 very courageous women through some of the most difficult times of their lives.
At the end of treatment (or whenever the client decides) they are finished documenting, we create & gift a luxury album to her of all the images we've taken during our time together. A testament of what they've battled. I had a client that had 7 sessions in total through her transformation, and she was so very glad she took the chance to do it.
A secondary part of the non-profit is the ability to provide "self care/love needs" to these clients. For example, a client mentioned during one of our sessions that she really didn't feel like a woman without her ni***es, which were removed during reconstructive surgery. I heard her words and was able to provide her with a prosthetic pair. No, it's not the same, but its a small gesture that can mean so much.
Another example that is simple, but meaningful is nail care. During chemotherapy/radiation, a client explained that her nails were in bad shape and could use a manicure. I provided her with several trips to the nail salon. Although these aren't technically necessities, they ARE. Mental health and self-love are so very important during the treatment/recovery/healing process, which is often overlooked.
I know that this program will start small and expand over time. We will be able to provide these few & meaningful things now and add so much more as we grow. I'm so excited to get the ball rolling on something so near & dear.
What can I do to help?
As a new non-profit, we are looking for sponsors & donations to provide the mentioned services for current client-patients. Monetary donations pay for the albums provided to clients, as well as any other "self-love/self-care" needs that may come up during their time with me.
Upcoming Fundraising Events which ALL proceeds go to INSPIher:
September & October - T Shirt fundraiser
September 29th - Doormat Painting Party
Friday, October 18th - Join me and my Depot Street Friends over at The Gentry for a Halloween Costume Party! Music & dancing, Photo Booth, Silent Auction, Games, Cash Costume Prizes & more! Fun for everyone!
Click the link below for T-Shirt pre-orders & Doormat Painting Party ticket:
https://bluemountainstudio.bigcartel.com
