Mary
Age:
52
Occupation:
Medical Secretary
Why did you say yes to this campaign? What was your WHY to participate?
The campaign caught my eye on social media and I felt it would be something I would like to do for me.
Tell me a little about you and your story:
I am married for 23 years and we are blessed with 3 boys, 1 in college and 2 in secondary school. I work in a healthcare facility. I am involved in my local GAA club and love going to matches. I enjoy meeting up with my friends and family.
What do you see when you look in the mirror?
I am happy with myself and want to celebrate it.
Describe yourself in 3 words:
Fun-loving, hardworking, sociable.
Do you feel like you have changed since turning 50?
Yes, I am more honest with myself and what you see is what you get. Turning 50 has made me appreciate the little things in life, health, happiness, family, and friends.
What are the most rewarding things about getting older?
Definitely having more time for doing the things I enjoy most.
Ordinary achievements bring me great joy, especially raising 3 healthy happy young men alongside my best friend my husband.
What has been the best life lesson you have learned along the way?
Your entire life can change in an instant. So instead of passively taking for granted what you have, be grateful for it and do whatever good you can with it.
What advice would you give to your younger self about caring for yourself?
Self care is not selfish and so important for mental health.
What is your favourite quote?
Always remember you are absolutely unique, just like everybody else.
What do you love most about your new portraits? Is there something new you discovered about yourself?
Having celebrated a milestone birthday during lockdown I felt this was something I would like to do!
I am so happy with the portraits. The experience did push me out of my comfort zone but now that I have done it I can highly recommend the experience to any ladies out there thinking of doing something for themselves that they will have and cherish forever.
What was your favourite part of working with me?
Olga, it was a pleasure to work with you and you certainly made me feel more than comfortable in my own skin! You are one talented lady.