We recently connected with D’ann Schaefer and have shared our conversation below.
D’Ann, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve come to realize that purpose isn’t a fixed destination but rather an evolving path. At different stages of life, what brings meaning and fulfillment can change, influenced by experiences, relationships, and personal growth.
For me, the quest for purpose came about when being diagnosed with a bone marrow cancer at the age of 22 years old. I quickly came to understand that tomorrow isn’t promised, and we only get one life to live so we better make it count. I prayed often and asked God to spare my life and use me in ways where I could bring others hope and show them the love of God. By understanding what brings joy and considering how I can contribute positively to the world around me, I’ve learned that purpose can be found in the small acts of kindness and the connections we forge with others. It’s in the pursuit of doing the best we can to leave the world a better place and the compassion we extend to those around us.
As I navigate through life, I embrace the idea that purpose looks different for everyone because we all have unique life experiences—each day offering a new opportunity for us to leave a positive mark on the world. Though the question of purpose may never be definitively answered, the journey itself is rich with discoveries, challenges, and the potential for profound meaning. Even though cancer is something that I would never wish upon anyone, it has been one of the greatest teachers in finding purpose in my life. For that, I am grateful.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a self-taught entrepreneur and photographer who has been in this creative industry for over ten years now. I have always had a passion for storytelling through photographs and began working with my parent’s film camera when I was a young girl. I guess I was always meant to do photography and didn’t even know it!
Not only am I a photographer, but I am also a firefighter wife, military spouse, mom of twin boys, Christian and bone marrow cancer survivor. At the age of 22, a tumor broke my back, and I was rushed into the ER for immediate spinal fusion surgery. I’d have to relearn how to walk again properly and gain strength. Following surgery, I underwent numerous rounds of radiation and chemotherapy followed by two bone marrow transplants. Even though the treatments were tough, they were thankfully successful. A few years later, I got married to my now husband who stood by my side through it all.
Putting my pursuits of a nursing career aside, I decided to pick up my DSLR and began taking photos. It was a creative outlet for me as I navigated life post cancer. Little did I know, this hobby of mine would turn into a business and I would never look back. I practiced constantly and educated myself continually. I enjoyed working with clients and making the process of getting photos taken both fun and memorable. It truly felt rewarding to capture these precious moments for people—especially since I had such a different appreciation for this thing we call life.
A few years into photography and two kids later, I sadly found out my cancer had relapsed after 8 years of remission. I would once again need to undergo radiation. This would happen yet again a year later—this time more chemotherapy, radiation, three donor lymphocyte infusions and CAR-T cell transplant. The road often times felt long and exhausting, but I channeled my hardships to work “for” me rather than see them as working “against” me. My mindset became such a powerful force, and I set out to really share the lessons I’ve learned throughout my journey with cancer to hopefully inspire others to live richer, more fulfilling lives.
To me, photography is so much more than snapping pictures of people. It’s a chance for me to get to really know my clients, watch their families grow and capture fleeting moments in their lives. We can never be certain how much time we have left here on earth, but the photographs will tell stories long after we are gone.
I truly feel blessed to be here doing what I love!
I feel strongly about sharing my story with others to bring them hope in their own moments of hardship. I am so thankful for those who were brave enough to share their story of struggle and triumph with me and now it is my duty to pay it forward to help others. My goal for the next year is to finish writing my book which goes into detail about my life and the journey I’ve had since being diagnosed with cancer. I hope readers will find it moving and inspiring, bringing hope to their own lives.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Three things that I feel were most influential in my journey are resilience, support, and faith.
In both my battle with cancer and my career as an entrepreneur, resilience is a quality I feel is so important to have and has helped me to keep moving forward, allowing me to adapt to challenges and overcome obstacles.
The second influential factor is support. Throughout my journey, the unwavering support of my family, friends, and mentors has been invaluable. They provided encouragement, love, and guidance when I needed it most, reminding me that I was never alone in my struggles. Lastly, the power of faith and keeping an optimistic outlook has played a crucial role. Maintaining a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity, has empowered me to see opportunities where others might see only setbacks. This mindset has fueled my determination and inspired those around me, creating a ripple effect of positivity and hope.
My advice to others is to keep pushing through the tough days and continuing to practice your skills.
Remember that progress often comes in small steps, and each challenge you overcome is a testament to your resilience and dedication. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and inspire you, and don’t be afraid to seek guidance or mentorship when needed. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and use them as motivation to keep moving forward. Above all, be kind to yourself, acknowledging that growth is a journey, not a destination.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
I would say the most impactful thing my parents did for me is demonstrate what it means to have unwavering faith in God above. After losing their entire livelihood to a fire and then just two months later having their daughter diagnosed with cancer, it would have been easy to throw in the towel, yet they did just the opposite.
Through their actions and words in the face of adversity, they demonstrated what true faith looks like and instilled in me the importance of trust, resilience, and kindness. They showed me how to find strength in times of adversity, even when all hope seemed lost. This faith became a guiding light, shaping my values and decisions, and teaching me the significance of compassion and hope in everyday life. Their example has been a constant source of inspiration, reminding me of the power of belief in God and the grace it brings to our lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elitephotographybydann.com/
- Instagram: @elitephotographybydann
- Facebook: Elite Photography by D’Ann
Image Credits
Photos by Elite Photography by D’Ann
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