I met Mary Ellen in 1993, shortly after she learned she had breast cancer. My very first impression of her was that while she was keenly aware of the gravity of her situation, she was positive and determined to meet it head on. Several weeks later, during her chemotherapy, Mary Ellen asked me to document her experience. She was at that time working through issues related to her appearance as a result of her chemotherapy. Again, I was struck by her determination to openly address the challenges before her and I agreed to do the shoot. The resulting photo session was one of the most memorable of my life. Image after image captured a spirit which was both vulnerable and strong, uncertain but undaunted. I subsequently made visits to the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit to record the daily victories and setbacks of her process. Again I was deeply touched by her courage and determination in the face of great personal trial.

A determined spirit she was in 1993 and a determined spirit she remains. After treatment, Mary Ellen returned to her career and resumed a full schedule of activities. Not surprisingly, she is a "doer" and an achiever in all aspects of her life. She is back to running and has even run marathons. She is well and moving on with her life.

I reflect now on what an honor it was to be allowed into that sacred space of deeply personal experience. Mary Ellen's request for a photograph was really quite a gift to me.