Shannon’s Story

TW: domestic violence

“March 16th, 2020 was one of the hardest days I’ve ever had in my entire life. I had to come to terms with the person I loved wasn’t the same person I had married, they were abusive. It was the day of my divorce and the day I was finally free from it all. This next chapter is for me and damn, it feels good. Thanks to my friends and family that have been supportive and along for the ride.”

When I heard about Shannon’s story, I had to reach out. Although she’s still healing from the affects of trauma, she is absolutely in the midst of a redemption story. You can see it in so many ways, from her hope to her smile to her healthy choices.

Shannon said this when I reached out to her:

“You don't know this but when you asked, I started crying to mom. I have lost so many friends that didn't believe me about [abuser's name] or simply pretended they were there for me on my posts but when I ask them to hang […] they don't reply or are too busy […]I've been struggling with that and realizing after moving back home I don't have as many people as I thought I did. it's been hard so you have NO idea how much I appreciate this and how happy it made me feel.”

In the midst of her extreme physical, emotional and mental abuse and following divorce, Shannon still graduated with her Master’s degree. She now has an M.A. in gerontology and has the power to make the next choice.

Shannon’s words after our shoot:

“You’re the best! I love them all Addie, seriously. It has helped my confidence so much […] your posing made me feel comfortable and you made the whole experience FUN! You made me feel like a true beauty and I cannot thank you enough.”

Thank YOU, Shannon. For letting me celebrate your story.