Cancer is a truly devastating disease that affects not only the person who has it, but everyone around him or her. It takes a strong person to remain positive throughout the ordeal and Jill Brzezinski-Conley is one of those people. Jill was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 32 and underwent a double mastectomy. Since then she has wanted to tell her story and help other victims of cancer feel more secure about their bodies, and she has been able to do so thanks to photographer Sue Bryce. Warning: This video may make you cry:
This inspiring video shows you how truly amazing Jill is. If a woman who has been through so much can be this positive and secure about herself, why can’t the rest of us? I think this is the message that Jill is trying to convey.
As powerful a message as it is, it would have never been told if it wasn’t for Sue Bryce bringing Jill to Paris and telling her story though photography and video. It really gets you thinking about what other incredible stories are out there that have never been told. Since this photo session was completed, it has been shown on the Huffington Post, Oprah, and spread like fire over social media.
“If I could change one woman’s life, I feel like I would die the happiest woman. Just to affect one woman, I would feel like I accomplished something.”
Like This Article?
Don't Miss The Next One!
Join over 100,000 photographers of all experience levels who receive our free photography tips and articles to stay current:
What a strong survivor !! Thanks a lot for telling us your story!
BTW- I had to tweet this video and did so immediately.
That is how much of an impact Jill’s story had on me.
Hopefully with the video going viral, many women of all ages will take heed of Jill’s message of self acceptance- no matter what.
This was an important video to post so thanks for putting it on this site which usually does not cover such a dark topic as cancer.
This is such a powerful video, so very inspiring, even if it brought tears to your eyes.
Jill is beautiful inside and out. Her courage is admirable. The love between her and her husband is obvious.
Her world was totally turned upside down from a whirlwind romance- to marriage- to a cancer diagnosis while still a newlywed.
I can only imagine her numbing shock when she learned she was sick. Yes, indeed, how can it be?
Her life was totally magical at the time and then she gets * THE NEWS* :-(
Her’s is an amazing story and she one example of what the face of a cancer can look like.
Cancer is known as a ruthless disease that does not discriminate- Jill fights with grace and pride.
She is not in denial but she is not in a perpetual pity party either.
May we be able to hold ourselves as she does, if we are ever stricken with this awful disease.
Her message in the video leaves a lasting impression: the hard truth about battling cancer, particularly breast cancer, told with incredible inspiration and a desire to help other women accept themselves as they fight cancer and deal with the physical and emotional wounding it can leave behind.
Bless her and may she be one of the lucky ones that somehow is given a miracle.
Thank you for adding to the awareness and support of cancer. I’ve written two songs, one about cancer and one about going through trials and looking back on them. Reaching out for support and help, and the joy of having come up through affliction. Here are the links I hope you find them connecting, and possibly helpful. Cancer Song-Not a Scarlet Letter: http://youtu.be/GcSJJoUHL_0 Scars In My Eyes: http://youtu.be/QT1S27bxFdk
this IS sisterhood… something so very much lacking today. Beautiful women banding together.. I hope I find this one day :)
You’ve made a difference in my life.
Beautiful hearts, stunning photos, and such incredible tenderness from all. I admire each and every one who were in the making of this. My heart and my prayers go to both Jill and her husband. Jill you give true meaning to ‘the beauty within’….your smile and your heart are both amazing and loving and beautiful! Bless you all for this gift to the world that was made with love.
Jill in tamil means “cool”. that is the way she looks.
A person with a strong heart and an attitude to showcase herself for the goodness of others.
The photograph taken were excellent, as a women photographer she is able to portray the beauty of Jill. Regarding the video a blend of emotion and film technique, to communicate the inner feeling of Jill.
Jill – you’re just beautiful!!!!!
Only the strong survive, thank you for telling your story. Sue you did a great job.
Such Bravery.
I take great exception to people like Jill being referred to as a victim. She’s hardly a victim. She’s a soldier. And Sue Bryce is an amazing photographer for bringing Jill to the attention of the world.
A Survivor!! I agree Ren, She’s not a victim. A soldier is a good way of putting it. Such a beautiful story of strength, so glad Sue shared Jill’s story with the world.
This is the most courageous person I have met in a long time. Granted, I haven’t “really” met Jill, but I feel like I have and her joy of life is contagious. I pray she wins this next battle and that the Lord Jesus holds her close to His Heart….
I’m so happy you shared the video of Jill Conley. What a beautiful woman not only on the outside but even more so on the inside. This made me realize how to appreciate life and let the petty things go. And she met the perfect man to share her life with. I’m praying that she will overcome her new cancer and be able to enjoy life to the fullest. She deserves that. Thank you again.