In 2016, life took an unexpected turn for Anna Rathkopf when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 37. With no family history of the disease, a healthy lifestyle, and at a relatively young age, her diagnosis brought about a seismic shift in her family's world. Her son was on the verge of turning three at the time, and this sudden challenge turned their lives upside down.
Our project, a joint endeavor by Anna and Jordan, was born out of the need to capture the intertwined yet distinct perspectives of a patient/survivor and a caregiver, each through their unique lens. Through our work, we aimed to celebrate the everyday moments of joy while candidly acknowledging the fears and challenges that are an integral part of this journey. We wanted to tell this story in a way that is both hopeful and unapologetically authentic.
Our mission was to depict the profound impact that illness can have on an entire family, as seen through the eyes of Anna, the diagnosed, who embodies the roles of a woman, artist, mother, and wife, and her husband Jordan, who carries the roles of a man, father, artist, and husband.
The project has received noteworthy recognition, capturing the attention of audiences worldwide. It has been featured in esteemed media outlets, including Good Morning America, CNN, and Metro UK, and stood as the Master Brand Campaign for Susan G. Komen, symbolizing a powerful journey of strength and resilience.