This past weekend I was blessed to be included in a photoshoot for breast cancer survivors. I have been very vocal about my history as  a breast cancer survivor, advocating to anyone who will listen. The women in my family have battled cancer for as long as I can remember and three years ago I joined the battlefield myself.  I look back at my cancer journey and I feel blessed. Does that sound crazy? Probably, but I wouldn’t change one minute of my story. I was diagnosed early and even though my treatment was drastic, it was my only option. I feel my journey has become a part of who I am. I have come to love my scars and treat them as my badges of courage. Cancer is not who I am, just a part of the story of Aimee. I have spent a great amount of time speaking about my experiences, volunteering my time, and fundraising so one day no one has to hear the words “you have cancer”.

I found out about this amazing opportunity masterminded by Genine Gullickson, who is an amazing photographer in the Schenectady, NY area. As her way to continue to give back, she organized an amazing day with six cancer survivors. I was lucky enough to be included and we were treated to a day of pampering; hair and makeup by amazing stylists who donated their Sunday to making the ladies feel beautiful. And let me tell you, the ladies looked amazing…And if that wasn’t enough, a mini-photoshoot with Genine in her beautiful studio, Clique Studio.

Now, I’d like to say my favorite part of the day was getting pampered, spoiled, dolled up, the mile-long eyelashes, the gorgeous pictures taken… but it wasn’t. My favorite part of the day was sitting down with the other five fighters, before the stylists took over;  none of us with makeup on, my hair stuffed in a winter hat, sipping on a mimosa, sharing our stories. Six women from all different walks of life shared their stories, fears, strengths, proud accomplishments, frightening moments. We ranged from 3 years cancer free to eighteen years to still in the fight. We may have started that day as strangers, but we left as sisters. 

I left with a full heart and a head full of ideas...stay tuned for my opportunity to give back!

And dont forget to check out Genine Gullickson http://www.geninegullickson.com