This event has had so many special meanings to me – but one of the driving forces of developing this fundraiser was from the relationship with a close friend of mine, Jessica. She has had life changing experiences with Breast Cancer, and it’s because of her story that I was compelled to make a difference. Ever since meeting Jessica in college, she has been a do-er. Her constant commitment to breast cancer research is inspiring, and I wanted to share her story.

Thank you, Jessica, for working with me on such a personal project. I am so blessed to have known such a strong and caring individual

- Kristen

Tim and Jessica after the proposal in Maine

Name - Jessica
Location – St Petersburg, FL/Orlando, FL
Photographer Name – Kristen Weaver

Why did you want to be involved with Images for a Cure?
I feel very strongly about breast cancer research as I have a strong family history of it. Also, Kristen is a good friend and I always like to help those that want to help others.

How has breast cancer made an impact on your life?
My Aunt and my Nana (both on my mother’s side) died from breast cancer at early ages. Also, my mother had a suspicious breast lump and therefore had a prophylactic mastectomy because of her family history. Because of all this, not only have I lost precious family members, but I fear for my chances of developing breast cancer. So I will do anything to help raise money for a cure to potentially help me in the future and help others to not lose their family members as I have.

How or why did you choose your photographer?
Kristen is my sorority sister and was a roommate of mine in college. I was blessed to be able to see the beginning of her photographic talents and I have been in awe of her ever since.

What kind of session will you be doing?
My boyfriend of 6 years and I just got engaged, so this is a great opportunity to have engagement photos taken.

Do you have any motivational or inspirational quotes that are meaningful to you?
The Serenity Prayer has always had meaning for me, since it had meaning for my Nana: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

Also, by Goethe: “Nothing is worth more than this day.”

Have you ever participated in any other “pink” campaigns?
I have participated in a few Susan G Komen Races, and it was always an amazing experience to see all these people come together to celebrate life and hope.

How did you and Tim meet? How did he propose?
Tim and I met through Kristen, incidentally, in college 6 years ago. We were friends at first and it eventually grew into more. In July of this year we went on vacation with his family to Ogunquit, Maine and he proposed to me on Ogunquit beach with chocolate covered strawberries flown in from San Francisco and Champagne. It was beautiful and meaningful and everything I could have dreamed of. One of the things that he said after he proposed was “Now you know that I’ll always take care of you,” that is when I lost it!