The Finding Strength, Photo and Narrative Exhibit is currently on display at Wellness Place.

In May of 2007 photographer Susan McConnell and writer Mary Klest collaborated with Wellness Place professionals and participants to create a photo and narrative exhibit illustrating the strength behind every cancer journey. Since the grand opening in Barrington, Finding Strength has been placed in hospitals, churches, libraries, senior communities and corporations. The exhibit is now on display in its entirety at the home facility location of 1619 W Colonial Pkwy in Palatine.

Who could imagine how powerful the images and words would be when placed together in an exhibit of this size and depth. Cancer has many faces. They are your mother, your father, your child, sibling, neighbor and co-worker. Grace and strength resonates through these ordinary people with extraordinary perspectives.

Our deepest gratitude to Susan McConnell and Mary Klest for their vision, dedication, energy and enthusiasm which led to the creation of Finding Strength; and to those who faithfully give of their resources to Wellness Place as we continue to provide vital services so no one has to experience cancer alone. Most of all, we thank our brave participants who, through the sharing of their stories, encourage an open dialogue about a disease once kept secret.

Susan McConnell is a fine art portrait photographer and her award-winning work has been published from coast to coast. www.susanmcconnellphotography.com

Mary Klest is a lifestyle journalist and contributing writer for print, business and online media.  www.maryklest.com