MRKH CONNECT PHOTO CHALLENGE

‘A picture speaks a thousand words’

Our journeys are unique but similar and we want to showcase that and help inspire the community old and new. Our MRKH photo challenge launched in 2021 with the idea to collect positive motivational images from the community and make them into a photo montage that spreads inspiration, hope and motivation for us all on our journeys.

Here are a selection of the inspirational photos and messages submitted so far.  Get in touch with us to share yours!

Claire

I chose this photo in relation to my MRKH journey, because I love being around nature. A strong rooted tree is one of my favourites……. It reminds me how strong I have become since my MRKH journey began and I stand tall and proud of who I have become as a person and a MRKH WARRIOR!

Sally

This picture means that there will always be hope, just look at the sky and pick up all the shine waves which slipped between the cloud to shine all over the world

Ade

This challenge makes me happy because I realize what I really like to do during my hard times. After I opened my gallery again, I found many photos about nature. I really like looking at the sky that is always changing colors. Sometimes it's cloudy, sometimes it's sunny, sometimes it's sprinkled with sparkling stars. Likewise with life there will be a change, even if the change is painful but there is a soul that is forged and becomes more beautiful.

Lynda

This is Mr. Chips he is my inspiration and what helps me most in my MRKH journey, he is my baby and made me realise I have all I need, he keeps me grounded, he gives me so much love and affection and shines light on the darkest of days. I've learnt so much about how strong I am since this my boy came into my life and I couldn't be without him. Mr. Chips has definitely made my MRKH journey easier.

Monica

One of the biggest things that helped me out with discovering my love of travel. For me travel is not about taking the perfect Instagram picture or seeing all the sights it’s about the people you meet. The world is really so small and there are so many people who are struggling on this journey called life just alongside you. Getting outside myself to meet new people, try new things, experience new cultures really truly brought so much healing to my life that I can’t even really express it. It makes the journey a whole lot less lonely.

Aysha

I've found baking has really helped keep me grounded! It's really therapeutic for me. When I'm baking I'm completely focused and immersed in that, so if I'm having a difficult moment or day I'd get baking, as it helps get rid of any negative thoughts or emotions and replaces it with joy and happiness.

Claire

Coming to terms with MRKH is tough but in those tough times I like to get out and explore with my camera and enjoy the beauty of nature. It allows be to be more at peace and calm with myself and my thoughts as i go on this journey to more acceptance.

Aysha

This lovely boy is my nephew and one of my biggest inspirations in my MRKH/life journey. He has Tourette's syndrome and over the last few years is having a really tough time with it and the trial medication. However, his strength, positive attitude and fighting spirit are amazing! Despite him struggling, he is very committed and does weekly reminder sessions online. Lately, I've been blessed to spend lots of time with him, which has been wonderful and it always cheers me up! He always showers me with so much love by cooking for me or buying me gifts! You've got this Ibrahim!

Monica

I love this challenge because the thing that brought me the most peace comfort and happiness during the rough points of my MRKH journey was actually photography. I’m self taught and I know I have a lot to learn about editing still, but I love the way the world looks through a camera. It’s nice to be able to block out all the noise, hurt and well… everything and just focus on the beauty of God's creations. The more you look for the simple beauty around you, the more you find it. I always walk away from taking pictures in a better mood. I can’t help but feel grateful.

Nessa

My hubby Stewart is my rock and always will be. We have been married for 30 years next year. He has been with me through so many things within my life and he has never judged me. He held my hand, supported me and been there even when it got tough. It has been a rough ride some of the time, but we got through it as a couple. My mum recently died of Covid in January 2021, Stewart was there for me especially as I could not get back to the UK due to lockdown. Do I accept me being born with MRKH? That's a hard one. If I was born with my reproductive organs I would not be married to Stewart and we would never have met. Stewart is my superhero, my rock who I love so much.

Ellamae

One thing that inspires and motivates me is my sparkly keyring that says 'more joy' - plus sunshine!

Lauren

My friends and family are important to me because they have been my rock throughout my journey and continue to be there on my good and bad days xx

PS

This picture is close to my heart and has helped me a lot while trying to understand my MRKH. It's a spot behind my house where I relax with my dog. My family has been extremely supportive throughout my diagnosis and this picture keeps reminding me about the light at the end of the tunnel. The light glows throughout the time I sit outside giving me the reassurance that home is always there for me.