A New York mother facing cancer has turned her weekly chemotherapy sessions into enchanting photo shoots shared on Instagram. When Angela Martinez learned that her cancer had advanced from her colon to her liver and lymph nodes, she made the bold choice to find a silver lining amidst the dreaded chemo appointments. “I’m not usually one for taking photos,” Angela admitted to TODAY. “But I have a passion for photography and wanted to document this journey for my children, just in case—no matter how grim that might sound.” As a mother of two, she refused to let the daunting challenge of stage four cancer dampen her spirits. “It’s a fantastic distraction while sitting in the infusion center. Plus, it makes the time go by so much faster.”
To craft her whimsical photos, Angela drew inspiration from her favorite movies and plays. Her contagious positivity has encouraged friends, family, and even the medical staff at her treatment center to join in on the fun. “Everyone seems to love it,” she shared. “There’s even a sign-up sheet that gets filled out weeks in advance. Some people tell me they feel guilty about looking forward to the next shoot, which I absolutely love.” Together, they’ve recreated iconic scenes from films like “The Breakfast Club,” “Star Wars,” and “Rocky,” as Angela approaches her twenty-third treatment.
Anyone who has dealt with cancer or supported a loved one through chemotherapy knows how vital it is to maintain a positive outlook. Finding healthy outlets for the whirlwind of emotions that accompany fighting for your life is equally important. “I think it’s essential to release those feelings instead of letting anxiety, anger, or fear fester,” Angela explained. “I’m not one to dwell on things for too long.”
As a mom, she aims for the photos to convey “progress, joy, and strength” for her children to see. “I want my kids to understand female empowerment and resilience. Although I can’t predict my future, I often joke about throwing a big birthday bash in the Virgin Islands when I turn 90,” she said. “I want to create memories that inspire them to envision the world I dream for them.”
Cancer can be bewildering and emotionally taxing, but these photo shoots offer Angela and her children a lighthearted focus. “My daughter loves the costumes and the final outcomes,” she noted. “My son, who’s almost three, calls my infusions a ‘little red bird’ and looks a bit puzzled when he sees me in a pink wig. So, I think he’s handling it well!”
Her family provides the strength she needs to navigate her chemotherapy journey. “There are days when I just want to cry,” Angela admitted. “Thankfully, I have an amazing support system. My husband and parents are absolute heroes.”
If you’re interested in more on family journeys and health topics, check out this post for useful information. You can also learn about home insemination kits at Make a Mom. Additionally, for those considering fertility treatments, this resource offers valuable insights.
In summary, Angela Martinez’s approach to chemotherapy—transforming it into vibrant photo shoots—serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit. Her creativity and positivity not only uplift her but also inspire those around her, especially her children.