Reclaiming Femininity – A Stroke Survivor’s Journey

"She Is Rising": A Story of Strength and Reclaiming Femininity

In her own words, by Megan Sardeson

Before my stroke, I was an active stay-at-home mom transitioning into empty-nest life. I had just started my own decluttering, organizing, and decorating business—helping people find joy in their surroundings and peace in their minds. I truly believe our environments reflect our mental state.

But at the same time, I was spiraling—physically and mentally. I was drinking excessively and not taking care of myself. Deep down, I was searching for spiritual help and guidance. I wanted to do better, to be better—for myself and my family.

Then the stroke happened… while I was sleeping.

When you go to bed as a fully functioning adult and wake up unable to sit, stand, or move parts of your body—it’s a complete mind fuck. Your whole sense of who you are changes. I remember the early days of recovery most vividly… and how useless I felt. I couldn’t contribute the way I wanted. Watching others do everything for you—constantly—makes you feel like a burden. And I never want to be a burden, especially to my family.

My nurses, aides, physical and occupational therapists—they were my cheerleaders. They held me up when I couldn’t do it myself. I learned quickly that humor was going to be my lifeline. In my family, we either laugh or cry at the absurdity. We choose to laugh.

Even when I didn’t tell many friends or family—I didn’t want a pity party. But once I started regaining abilities, I began sharing my journey online. The outpouring of support was humbling. Long-lost friends and classmates reached out, and many still ask how I’m doing.

This stroke was my reset button. I’m becoming the woman I’ve always wanted to be. Mentally, I am stronger than ever. Physically—I have challenges. My left arm and hand still aren’t where I want them, but I’m getting stronger every single day. Picking up a piece of paper off the floor gives me joy. Walking to the mailbox or taking out the trash is no longer a chore—it’s an “I get to” moment.

And yes, I have my quirks. My speech is clear, though if I’m tired I may squeak like a pubescent 12-year-old boy—ha! But I passed all my cognitive tests. I can eat, drink, move, live. I have control of my body. And I have a whole new outlook on life—more compassion, more purpose, more love. I want to do something big. I want to inspire others.

And one day I just knew—I was ready to reclaim myself.

I wanted to feel pretty. Desirable. Confident. In control of how I saw myself. Just because I don’t move the way I used to—or as fast as others—doesn’t mean I’m not worthy. I’m not invisible. I wanted to prove to myself that I was still here. That I still have presence.

Booking a session with Shira just felt right. I’ve followed her work. I knew she could help me reconnect with that feminine, badass version of myself who was ready to rise.

I wanted to feel beautiful. Strong. Independent. Acknowledged. At first, it was awkward—I still struggle to move or hold poses the way I’d like. But once we started, I just lived in the moment. And I was comfortable.

If I could tell another woman who feels disconnected from her body or spirit one thing, it would be this:

Trust yourself. You are still here. You are loved. You are worthy of love and attention.

Femininity, to me, is a source of power. Women are beautiful, complex creatures—and we should embrace that with confidence, knowing we hold power in our own lives and in the lives we touch.

If my portraits could speak, they’d say:

She may be broken now, but she is on the mend. She’s making her way. She is strong, sexy, resilient. She will rise out of the ashes better than before. She is worthy of love, respect, and compassion—not pity or coddling.

I never really lost my badassery… this session helped me feel it again.

Photographers Notes

By Shira W Rose

I’m ready to feel sexy again.” 

And my whole soul screamed YASSSS. Because when you know Megan—you know. She’s the woman with an eye for beauty in everything. That old-money vibe without the stuffiness. Bougie without being extra. She has this effortless, collected style—like she walked out of a Charleston estate with a glass of iced tea and a design book under her arm. And it just works. Getting her in front of my camera is always a wishlist must! Her whole vibe just inspires. 

We met years ago through her organizing and design business. I’ve watched her transform spaces with the kind of warmth and intention that makes a house feel like a home. I photographed her son’s senior portraits, and I remember thinking—he’s seeing himself through her lens of love. That’s Megan. She brings that out in people.

So when I learned she had a stroke last fall, I was floored. She’s young. Radiant. So full of life. It didn’t make sense. But if you think that slowed her down, you don’t know Megan.

She went to work. Hard. Healing became her full-time job. She called it her reset button—and she meant that. Body, mind, spirit—she committed to the work of becoming whole again. She shared parts of her recovery online with humor, grace, and that signature wit. Not for pity. Not for applause. But because she knew her story had power.

And then came that text. “I’m ready to feel sexy again.” She was ready to book a refined beauty and boudoir session. There was no better time than now.

We booked fast. Neither of us wanted her to talk herself out of it. And when she showed up—subtly nervous, yes—but fully in it, I watched her transform in front of the lens.

She didn’t let the limited use of her arm stop her. Didn’t let fatigue steal her shine. She was there to reclaim her femininity, her worth, her presence. She came to be seen. And trust me—she was.

Megan, you are strength in heels. A resilient, radiant, badass woman.

Thank you for letting me witness you rise.

Thank you for reminding the world what power looks like wrapped in grace.

You are a goddess. A work of art. And you are still so beautifully here. And no doubt your fan base has grown through your unexpected journey… you truly inspire. 

I remain truly in awe of you! xo -Shira