On September 28, I had the pleasure of participating with a group of outstanding women from the Soroptimist International of Santa Clarita Valley in their combined Bras for a Cause and Fashion Show fundraiser, Stinkin Sexy Event at the beautiful Mountain Gate Country Club in Beverly Hills. The efforts of this event will assist women and girls in the Santa Clarita Valley who are in need of some assistance. The Soroptomist of Santa Clarita Valley assists through local agencies such as: Betty Ferguson Foundation, Child and Family Center, College of the Canyons Foundation, Domestic Violence Center, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Foundation, Samuel Dixon Family Center, Single’s Mother’s Outreach and the Senior Center, just to name a few. If you wish more information on the Soroptomist you may contact Terri Cadiente, president at 661-294-7841 or stuntsista@aol.com .
It was an event of pure enjoyment, adventure – shopping sprees are always an adventure, entertainment and elegance. But what touched me most were our guest speakers, breast cancer survivors. One survivor spoke on the importance of early diagnosis. She, barely thirty years of age, was diagnosed a few years ago with a serious stage of breast cancer. She is beautiful, radiant and full of life on a mission to bring awareness and change to promote early mammograms and encourages women to self check even if they are in their 20s. Unfortunately insurance companies will not support this. I remember when I walked in the Avon 3Day the parents of a 17 year old breast cancer victim were walking in our group. Breast cancer respects no age boundaries.
As I showcased beautiful portraits of women at this event, I had several images of breast cancer survivors whom have commissioned me to create sexy, sensual portraits of them regardless if they have had a breast or two removed.
I have found that as I photograph more and more of these special women I have learned so much and grown in ways that I never imagined. Their sense of courage and value for finding joy in their journey is a great strength for us all.
For more information on Intimate Portraits the Art of Maureen Benoit you may go to www.portraitelegancebymaureen.com or call 818-701-5001 or 661-476-9772.