The Story Of You - Francesca

Content Warning: These stories contain mentions of body dysmorphia, body image struggles, pregnancy loss, fertility struggles and gendered violence. If you find any of the below triggering, please find a list of helpful and free resources below:

DV/SV: 1800 RESPECT

Mental Health: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

Eating Disorders and Body Image Issues: Butterfly Foundation 1800 ED HOPE

Meet Francesca, a 37-year-old midwife, mother of two spirited girls, and a woman rediscovering her own strength through a remarkable journey of self-discovery.

As someone who witnesses the raw power of women daily in her profession, Francesca found herself on an unexpected path after motherhood. The years of pregnancy and breastfeeding, combined with the hidden weight of postnatal depression, left her struggling to recognize herself.

"Looking back now, I realise how much I had lost myself in the journey of motherhood," Francesca reflects. "As a midwife, I was constantly pouring my energy into supporting other women through their transformative moments, while quietly battling my own challenges."

But Francesca's story isn't about numbers on a scale or fitting into society's mold. It's about something far more powerful; the conscious decision to reclaim herself, not just for her own sake, but as a living example for her young daughters.

For the past 18 months, she's been rewriting her narrative. "I want my daughters to see that I workout so I can be fit and fast and strong! Not just to look a certain way!" she shares with fierce determination. This shift in perspective marks a beautiful evolution in her relationship with her body from viewing it through the lens of appearance to celebrating its capability and strength.

Every day, Francesca witnesses the incredible power of women in her role as a midwife. Now, she's channeling that same energy into her own journey. "I see the power of women every day in my job, so I know I can do it!" she declares. This isn't just about physical transformation; it's about embodying the strength she helps other women discover during their most vulnerable moments.

Her message to her daughters is clear and powerful: "I want my girls to see me and know I am fierce and that they are too!" It's a testament to the ripple effect of self-love and empowerment, showing how one woman's journey to reclaim her power can inspire the next generation.

Francesca's story reminds us that strength isn't about conforming to societal expectations, it's about recognizing the power that was there all along. As she continues to grow stronger both physically and emotionally, she's creating a legacy of self-acceptance and fierce determination for her daughters.

"I want to look at an image of myself and be proud of how far I have come," she shares. And that's exactly what this journey is about, not the destination, but the profound transformation that happens when we choose to put ourselves back on our own priority list.