Welcome to this blog! The reason I've started this "Transformations: Women of Strength" program is to share the stories of women who have undergone some major life transformation, risen above something that's challenged them, and are now ready to share their advice and wisdom with others in similar circumstances.

I have been looking lately to incorporate a greater life purpose in my work. The thinking I have done about why I am where I am, how I got here and what I can do to help others in a similar situation grew into this program. I would like to photograph women as they are, and then transform them with a beauty makeover (hair and makeup) and photograph them again after their physical transformation.

The thought is that most women need this attention, but especially women who have come through cancer, are survivors of abuse, lost loved ones, or battled self-image or other issues. Secondly, women also need to see themselves the way that the rest of the world sees them. We need our self image to catch up with who we are now, not the version of ourselves from 15 years ago that we still see in our heads!

The photos are a physical representation, but the words, the interview, the story...that's the meat of it. I want to get answers, learn what it is that helps us get through hard times. Is it a support system, are some people just wired differently and why can some people just seem to handle adversity and stay positive? I've seen people pull themselves out and I've seen people go down with the ship. I know there is something we can all learn from those that stay afloat, and I am hoping to find some of what that is and share it here.

In preparation for this project, I recently stepped in front of the camera, and Sharon Cooke was there to take my portrait. If I am going to ask people to share their most painful moments and to be honest about what got them through, then I feel I need to go through the same experience, so I am sensitive to what I'm asking others to do. That will be an upcoming post.

It's scary. I know I am very nervous about opening up about my past. Many of us are afraid of two things: being alone, and being judged. This blog will hopefully help us realize that we are not alone in our experiences, and that the heaviest judgement is often coming from within.

I urge you to nominate anyone you think is a leader in self-transformation. You can send an email to me: [email protected] if you would like to suggest someone, want to know more, wish to donate or even participate yourself!

Thank you for joining the conversation, I hope you stay with us!

Christine