Putting yourself out there for all to see is not an easy thing to do. In fact, it's pretty brave. The many people who participated in my photography project knew that their image and their story would be part of an exhibit and that I would be blogging about them. That's brave. Janine is one such person who shows her bravery in many ways. I've known her for years, but have gotten to know her better through this project and I have grown to truly admire her. Her story is touching and inspiring.
In her words:
"I wanted to hide in the beginning. Now, I search for eye contact, share a smile, and enjoy the sometimes surprised reactions reflecting back at me. If I’m honest, what I see in the mirror doesn’t accurately reflect who I am. Alopecia may have taken my hair, but ultimately, the diagnosis has enriched my spirit. I hold my head higher now than I did before because I have embraced the mantra that adorns my head, “Let it go…” My tattoo is a gentle reminder to myself and others to release the things in this world that we cannot control, and that’s pretty much everything! I’ve added to my tattoo over the years in hopes that people will take a second look -- not at me, but at the message. “Letting it go” continues to help me move through the world with a renewed energy, purpose, and evolving sense of self. I’m forever grateful."
Janine Sanger
Director of Health and FACS
To find out more about this project Click Here and be sure to leave your comments below.
4 Comments
Jun 29, 2018, 3:46:11 PM
Sue Denk - A beautiful picture of a beautiful person! Kind, generous and brave...everyone should have a friend like Janine. I am blessed to know her!
Jun 28, 2018, 11:38:22 PM
Monica anastasiadis - Janine and I are both from Rochester I also have alopecia and when I saw her picture I knew I had to connect with her immediately I feel similarly that losing my hair was a way to help me develop things on the inside of my software as I might have never tapped into those she's really sweet and really great
Jun 28, 2018, 9:26:22 PM
Bridget Bryant - Janine, I think you're beautiful person inside and out.
Jun 28, 2018, 8:46:29 PM
Denise Wesley - My dearest janine.... I have ALWAYS looked up to you, admired you, tried to mirror you, asked for your advice over the years.... you’ve always been “that person” for me, but now, reading this and looking at your beautiful self in this picture my love and admiration and respect for you has only multiplied - oh let me see...about a MILLION TIMES. You are Brave. You are Beautiful. You are Badass.
I. Love. You.