Maria Johnson (36), Madeline (5), Virginia (3), and Juliet (1)
Maria is a previous project participant. You can view her previous photo and story from 2014 here.
Brazil | Minneapolis, MN
Maria shares -
“I have dealt with body image issues for a long time. Currently I feel good in my skin, but I often wish my body was different too. I know I was lucky to bear three beautiful babies and that each of those babies changed my body. But they changed my life in bigger and better ways, so there is a peace and acceptance that comes with this. I also try hard to give myself grace and remind myself that my priority is to be healthy for my children.
With our first daughter I suffered from postpartum depression. It was awful, but I was lucky to have had a therapist point it out and an amazing doctor that made the whole process a little easier. It was definitely one of my biggest life challenges. Something so deep and personal that needed to be treated and in order for that it needed to be shared. I ended up staying with my medication with my second and third pregnancy and it has helped me a lot. Today there are other anxiety and depression problems that have been made better thanks to the same medication.
My truth is be truthful! Know that sharing your truth, your story you will help others heal and get help. It’s powerful when we stop being ashamed to share and start to let people see the real you. As human we connect better that way. We are all beautiful and imperfect.
I decided to participate in this movement the first time for the same reason as this time. I have continued to believe that women need to share their stories and help others that way. To be true to yourself and others.”