Bloomington, IL Cancer Survivor Boudoir Photo Session | A Cancer Survivor's Story

My name is Sarah, and while I’ve proudly been a wife and mother—married to Dan for 14 years with three wonderful children, Hannah, Donavan, and Drew—I never expected to add the title “breast cancer survivor” to my life story.

It all started in March 2024, when a routine mammogram turned into something much more serious. A week after the mammogram, I was called back for further tests, which led to a biopsy. Just a few days later, on March 18, 2024, I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, a form of breast cancer. My tumor measured over 2 centimeters, and my doctors were concerned it might have spread to my lymph nodes.

After undergoing an MRI, the tumor appeared smaller than initially thought, and thankfully, there didn’t seem to be any lymph node involvement. Things moved quickly from there—consultations with my breast surgeon and oncologist, and decisions about treatment. Despite having no family history of breast cancer, I learned my invasive ductal carcinoma was hormone-positive but not aggressive. Where it came from? We didn’t know—likely just lifestyle factors.

The biggest concern on my mind was surgery. Would I need a mastectomy? What would my future look like? Thankfully, my breast surgeon recommended a partial mastectomy after confirming there was no lymph node involvement. A PET scan further confirmed the tumor was smaller than expected, and I was relieved to know I was at low risk for recurrence.

My surgery successfully removed all traces of cancer. While I didn’t need chemotherapy or targeted therapy, I underwent 20 rounds of radiation as a precaution. It wasn’t easy, but I was grateful that my battle ended there. Radiation alone felt like more than enough.

After surgery, I struggled with body image. The scars and slight deformity in my left breast left me feeling less confident and unsure of myself. That’s why I’m so thankful to have been chosen for a Cancer Survivor Boudoir session with Karen Stauffer, a renowned Bloomington boudoir photographer. The experience was life-changing. From getting my hair and makeup done to seeing the stunning photos Karen captured, I felt beautiful and empowered. For the first time since my diagnosis, I felt like myself again. My husband loved the photos, too.

This boudoir session for cancer survivors helped me rediscover my strength and beauty. Cancer might have left its physical mark, but it couldn’t take away who I truly am. Thanks to Karen and her amazing work as a Bloomington boudoir photographer, I was reminded that even with my scars, I am still sexy, still strong, and still me.

—Sarah Frohberg