The Sarnia Journal has partnered with local photographer Art Connolly to feature his captivating “Humans of Sarnia” series as he delves into the lives and experiences of everyday people in Sarnia. Follow his series on Instagram and Facebook
As I sat down with Chantell, these words seemed to echo the essence of her story. Chantell is a mother of two, a former wedding photographer, and former student in the Social Service Worker Program. She’s originally from Alberta, but for the past 17 years, she’s called Sarnia home. Yet, this home has felt a little heavier lately.
Chantell is navigating a profound loss: the passing of her mother. It’s a grief that sits quietly in the corners of her daily life, but it’s also a source of strength for her to push forward. “Losing my mom has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever gone through,” she shared, her voice carrying a mixture of sadness and determination. “She was my rock, and now I’m learning how to find my footing again, not just for me, but for my kids.”
Despite the weight of her loss, Chantell speaks about her children with a light in her eyes. “They’re my everything,” she said with a soft smile. Providing them with a stable, loving home is her top priority. She’s also pursuing her education in the Social Service Worker Program, a path that reflects her compassionate nature. “I want to be able to help others who are going through tough times. I think, in some ways, it’s also helping me heal,” she explained.
Her life as a photographer is another layer of Chantell’s identity. Known for her wedding photography, Chantell has spent years capturing beautiful moments of love and joy. “I miss it,” she admitted. “There’s something so rewarding about being trusted to document someone’s happiest day. But right now, I need to focus on myself and my family.” She plans to return to her photography business when the time feels right.
Our conversation shifted to the idea of vulnerability—something Chantell feels strongly about. “Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable,” she said with conviction. “We live in a world where it feels like we have to have it all together all the time. But that’s not real life. Real life is messy, and sometimes we need help to get through it.”
For Chantell, asking for help hasn’t always come easily, but it’s been an essential part of her journey. She’s found solace in the support of friends, community resources, and even small moments of self-care. “There are so many services out there, and people who genuinely want to help,” she said. “It’s okay to lean on them when you need to. That’s how you move forward—one step at a time.”
Grief is a complex emotion, and Chantell knows that healing isn’t linear. “I’d like to get back into my own skin again, to feel like myself,” she said, her voice tinged with hope. She acknowledges that the process takes time, but she’s committed to finding her way.
As she shared her story, I couldn’t help but admire Chantell’s openness. In a world that often encourages us to hide our struggles, her willingness to speak candidly about grief and resilience is both refreshing and inspiring. She’s living proof that vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength.
To anyone facing their own challenges, Chantell offers this simple yet profound advice: “Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. It’s okay to ask for help. That’s how you grow, how you heal, and how you move forward.”
There’s no doubt in my mind that Chantell will find her way back to herself. Her determination, her love for her children, and her belief in the power of vulnerability are guiding her through this chapter of her life.
As we wrapped up our conversation, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of optimism. Chantell’s story is a reminder that even in the face of loss, there’s always room for hope, healing, and growth.
“Humans of Sarnia” founder Art Connolly is a man fuelled by curiosity and a passion for connecting with people in Sarnia. Inspired by the renowned “Humans of New York” series, with a camera in hand, he captures the very essence of the individuals he encounters, preserving their stories through his lens.