This past January I was the featured photographer for a “Girl’s Night Out” event that was held at Ari’s House of Dance in Fredericksburg, Va. During this event the ladies had a chance to take photos with their girlfriends, purchase items from other vendors in attendance, as well as learn different dance techniques from the instructors. While I’ve had to stop doing these types of events due to my schedule, I had a blast and I think the ladies did as well.  I also raffled off a 30-minute headshot session to be used in 2013.  Time went by and I never heard from the winner until about 2 weeks ago. Shirley contacted me and was ready to schedule her photo session.  She hadn’t lost her prize, she had been holding on to it and waited to use it to show off her new figure.  Shirley was much heavier and had been dealing with high blood pressure and diabetes and she finally decided that she was ready to make a change.  While she tried the traditional approach, she hadn’t seen the desired weight loss and decided to have gastric bypass surgery.  I asked if I could share her story because this was such a huge step for her and she said yes in hopes of inspiring someone else.  As a result of her surgery and her lifestyle changes, Shirley lost 100lbs!!! I have to admit that she is on fire and loves life!  To meet someone so early on a morning with frigid temperatures that was as bubbly and happy as Shirley is amazing and I can tell she is genuinely happy about life.  Although our session was only 30-minutes, I had a great time with her and I left feeling so grateful to be the one that was able to document this milestone in her life.  She felt so lucky that she won this session, but I have to think this wasn’t a coincidence.  My new friend, Shirley, has a new look, so check her out!

Shirley’s response to her photos: “What an AMAZING photographer you are, Terri!!  I cannot believe how LUCKY I was to win this prize.  With these photos, I have the confidence to post an online profile!! THANK YOU!!!”