I had known of, respected and been dear friends with Debra for quite some time before she approached me to consider doing a photo shoot regarding my visible scars and even the internal marks they had left upon me. Although we had discussed me doing the shoot, I must admit was somewhat apprehensive and reluctant because of my body image.
Debra knew this and was very soothing, gentle and supportive and told me to “just think about my accident” which I was not sure I was ready to deal with. However, after some time and genuine heartfelt concerns which Debra and I discussed in depth, I decided to “get out of my comfort zone” and let down my guard to what Debra explained to me was an “opportunity for healing”.
When I arrived at Debra’s studio, she took great care and concern to make sure I was at ease with what ended up being much to my surprise, the most important and healing process for my growth and self acceptance within that next 2 1/2 hours of shooting. She had me talk through my experience that had happened to me almost 20 years ago which had not only disfigured my body but also my internal perception of myself. I suppose I never knew I was hiding behind a wall of masks that I have always worn to try and overcompensate with my personality for what my body image was lacking. During the shoot, Debra shot the photos allowing me to stop, process and express my feelings about the accident that transformed my thinking of how and why I had viewed myself as I had all these years later. I had, unknowingly, allowed these feelings make me feel somewhat inadequate.
The whole experience was very emotional and many feelings and thoughts rose up within me that I never even knew where still there that needed to be processed and dealt with. I truthfully had thought I had gotten over my self-rejection issues of my body, though I discovered through our shoot, was far from my truth. Her sensitivity along with her professionalism, talent and even God filled spirit made my experience one of the most gratifying and healing part of my life journey.
She helped me to realize that we are all more than just our scars which have great potential in not only molding and shaping our lives but also can positively effect the lives of others when we believe in ourselves and the gifts God has given each of us that makes us unique. Today, I look back at that photo shoot with pride from what the experience left within my heart to regain and feel. I know I will forever be grateful to Debra for being the person and friend she is for not only believing in me but for also giving me the best form of therapy I could have ever asked for in that photo shoot that day.
She really is an inspiring, forthright woman of conviction and someone I will forever admire and be thankful for in helping me to heal in this journey called life.
With a grateful and humble heart, Alicia