Tell us your story! What made you want to take part in the Love Me True Campaign?
I saw the Love me true campaign on Facebook and wanted to give something back to myself. Since 15, I’ve struggled with CPTSD and addiction, hitting my rock bottom more than once. I was in another bad relapse when I found out I was pregnant. It wasn’t like all of a sudden I quit what I was doing. I was honestly so lost and confused, but somewhere I knew this was my journey and I needed to sort my life out.
From there, with the support of my family, I’m clean and have a beautiful daughter. I'm so blessed to have her in my life. Addiction is such a sad disease and a lot of New Zealanders are fighting this, hurting the ones we love. The 'Love Me True' campaign made me feel amazing. After having a baby you feel exhausted, your body has taken big toll. It made me feel rewarded and beautiful!
What advice would you offer to other women who are considering taking part in the campaign?
Do it! Jessie and the team make you feel so comfortable. I suffer from such bad anxiety and the girls made me feel like a queen.
What does it mean to love yourself?
For me it’s healing from the inside and learning to forgive myself. Rather than looking at what’s in the mirror, checking in with myself, making sure I’m ok.
How did you feel during the experience?
I felt amazing. The whole process from makeup and hair, and then to the photo shoot, I felt like I was in great hands.
How did this experience impact you? Have you noticed any changes in yourself, be it your self-confidence or anything else since your session?
I left feeling elevated. I got to see 'me' again and the new me, a mother. I’m so proud of where I am now and doing the shoot in those early days after having my daughter helped me.
What was the best part of the experience?
Looking glam!
Is there anything else you would like to share?
If you’re having doubts or anxiety about it, don’t. The whole experience was amazing from start to finish.
Last question, would you do it again?
Yes!
