North Bay Woman

F A L L | W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 NORTH BAY WOMAN 11 A mid a foggy morning, and what could be seen by many as a gray gloomy time of life, a sea of bright pink hope, happiness and health shined brightly through the chill as the North Bay Woman cover models gath- ered for the photo shoot. Brought together by fate, these women, most of whom did not know each other, share a common warrior spirit as they are all going through or re- covering from breast cancer. The smiles and elbow bumps weren't deterred by the brisk wind or covid or individual struggles or cancellation of this year's To Celebrate Life Gala, where these women were supposed to find some solace as models. Laughter, strength and warmth radiated from the group as they quickly bonded, discussing their breast cancer journeys After the composed photo shoot, photo above, I jumped in to have some fun. It was not at all difficult to have everyone throw up their arms in celebration of life and health regardless of the stage of breast cancer that we're all in. You see, cancer does change you, and your love of life and happiness meter seems to be height- ened, and being present at each moment is a gift. That is the photo that actually became this issue's cover. That was one of the most rewarding photo shoots and mornings I've had. Thank you to these brave women for showing up with grit and gratitude as I know they do every day. Additional praise goes out to Aimi, Carol and Mary for allowing us to tell each of their stories of trage- dy and triumph which you will find in the coming pages. Breast cancer is a war that can be won! – Lori Pearce AT THE PHOTO SHOOT Cover Thrivers (in alphabetical order): Toni Brigette-Bernardo, Carol Butler, Berta Campos-Anicetti, Vicki Crase, Julie Erwin, Claudia Gardner, Aimi Dutra Krause, Catherine Kuhn, Nicole Loiacono, Mary Papale, Debbie Randell, Amber D. Rice, Kim Schow, Dianne Sheridan, Lilly Stamets, Joy Troyer, Marlene Vasilieff, Kim Wimer. – Photo by Stuart Lirette

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