Have you ever met someone who completely shifts your perspective on life? That’s exactly how I felt when I met Jessica Colburn.

During her boudoir session, Jessica shared her story of living as a Neuroendocrine cancer fighter, and I knew right then and there that her journey needed to be shared—not just her stunning photos, but her incredible resilience, positivity, and strength.

Coincidentally, November 10th is World Neuroendocrine Tumor Awareness Day, and Jessica was eager to use her story as an opportunity to educate others and empower women everywhere. Her journey is a testament to the power of self-advocacy, resilience, and choosing to see the beauty in life, even when faced with unimaginable challenges.

Jessica’s Diagnosis: The Importance of Self-Advocacy

Jessica was diagnosed with Neuroendocrine cancer about five years ago, in her early 30s. Neuroendocrine cancer is an extremely rare and often misdiagnosed form of the disease. Like many others with this diagnosis, her path to discovery was a long and frustrating one. It began with stomach issues that were initially attributed to acid reflux. But Jessica knew deep down it was something more.

“I just knew something wasn’t right,” she told me. “We know our own bodies, and you just have to trust what your body’s telling you.”

After multiple misdiagnoses, Jessica finally pushed for further testing, and a colonoscopy revealed the truth: Neuroendocrine cancer. Her advice to women everywhere is simple but powerful:

“Trust what your body’s telling you. Advocate for yourself.”

Her words are a reminder that when it comes to our health, we are our own best advocates.

Fighting Cancer with Resilience and Positivity

Although Jessica’s cancer is incurable, her outlook on life is nothing short of inspiring. Over the past five years, she’s endured three surgeries, four rounds of radiation, and monthly treatments, but she refuses to let it define her.

“The first couple of years were hard,” Jessica admitted. “But there was a turning point where I said, ‘You know what? I’m not going to be a victim to this. I’m not going to let it take my heart and my spirit. I’m going to use this really crappy situation to help other people who are struggling. Because I know that I’m bigger than this disease.’”

And that’s exactly what she’s done. Jessica is a wife, mom, and high school special education teacher who continues to pour her love and energy into her students every day. “I’m going to love these kids as if I wasn’t sick,” she says of her work.

She’s also used her story to inspire others through Recycled Percussion’s “Chaos and Kindness”, a movement focused on spreading positivity and being the best version of yourself. Jessica’s journey has been featured in their work, where she encourages others to stay positive, even when life throws you a curveball.

Boudoir as a Celebration of Strength and Beauty

For Jessica, her boudoir session was more than just a photoshoot—it was a way to empower women and celebrate her journey. After years of thinking about booking a session, the timing finally aligned for her to step into my studio.

Jessica shared that she had some initial nerves but quickly realized how transformative the experience would be. Her advice to anyone considering a boudoir session?

“Put your fears away and just do it because the outcome exceeds the fear that you might have. It is so worth it.”

Throughout the session, Jessica radiated strength and grace. She even asked me to highlight her scars—beautiful reminders of everything she’s overcome. “I’ve been through some really crappy stuff, and I can still be a light and be beautiful,” she said. And she’s absolutely right. Her stunning images are proof that beauty isn’t about perfection—it’s about resilience, self-love, and authenticity.

Jessica’s Message to Women Everywhere

As Jessica looks toward the future, she wants other women who are struggling to know they’re not alone. Her advice? Surround yourself with a support system and accept the love and help that people genuinely want to give.

“I’ve been loved through it, and I want to love other people through it,” she said.

Jessica’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, we have the strength to rise, to love, and to be a light for others. Her journey—and her boudoir session—are a celebration of all the beauty, courage, and resilience that life can hold.

If you’re ready to celebrate your own journey with a boudoir shoot, I’d love to help you capture your strength and beauty. Send me an email today to book your session.