Finding Joy in the Small Things: Laura’s 50 Over 50 Portrait Story (Vol. 8)

Five years ago, during the uncertainty of the pandemic, Laura faced one of the hardest seasons of her life: a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment largely endured alone. Today, she speaks with deep gratitude for health, family, friendship, and the quiet beauty of everyday life.

In this Wise Women | 50 Over 50 portrait story, Laura shares what aging has taught her about resilience, boundaries, joy, and learning to give herself the same compassion she so freely gives to others.

Visit the project website to learn more about the 50 Over 50 Portrait Experience and to start your own story.


What are some of the most significant lessons you've learned since turning 50?

As I’m getting older, I’ve learned (still learning) to let go of perfectionism. Unrealistic standards and expectations can cause you to miss out on all the blessings you have in your life. Don’t be so hard on yourself! You should give yourself the same love and compassion you give to your loved ones. And you don’t have to please everyone all the time, boundaries are so important for healthy relationships (not just with a partner but also with children, family, and friends). Lastly find joy in the small things, a morning walk, a good book, sweet kitty cat snuggles 🥰

How has your perspective on life changed as you've gotten older?

Health is wealth! As a nurse, I’ve always appreciated how important your health is. But as a breast cancer survivor I’m reminded that everything can change with one biopsy. You can never take good health for granted, it is truly a gift!

What is one thing you wish more people understood about women over 50?

We still have so much to offer and contribute! We have learned a lot of life lessons along the way. We don’t worry as much about what everyone thinks. There are some outdated stereotypes about aging and it’s just not true. I feel happier now than I ever did when I was younger.

What accomplishments are you most proud of at this stage in your life?

My family, my relationship with my husband and kids. They are the most important to me. I’m so proud of them all. We’ve all worked so hard to get to this point in life.

What are your hopes or dreams for the years ahead?

I can only hope for health and happiness for all those that I love. That we continue to thrive and love each other.

Tell me about a challenge you've faced in your middle or older years and how you overcame it (or how you are in the process of overcoming it, or accepting it).

Five years ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a shock and very scary to say the least. The hardest part for me was telling my family and loved ones because I knew they would be upset and worry. The treatment was during the early stages of the pandemic and I had to go to most appointments alone. But we are so very blessed to have access to the best healthcare in the world. You realize just how strong and brave you can be when you have to! I’m one lucky lady!

How do you nurture your physical, emotional, and/or spiritual well-being?

I walk every day for exercise, but also for my mental wellbeing. I listen to music, a book, or sometimes just the birds chirping in the morning! I have a bird app on my phone and have become a little obsessed 😂 I try to pay attention to the world around me - bald eagles in a tree, blooming flowers that smell amazing, beautiful sunrise.

What role do friendships and community play in your life now?

Now that my kids are grown, I have more time to focus on friendships and activities that I love. I really appreciate all the amazing women in my life that I get to spend time with now. We raised our kids together and have a lot of history. Such a gift.

Reader, if you’re ready to be seen and would like to participate in the 50 Over 50 Portrait Experience, please visit the project website and fill out the short form. I’ll be in touch soon. I’d love to have you! But don’t wait - the project is filling quickly, and I expect it to be fully booked in the next few weeks.

Want more?

Explore more inspiring women from the 50 Over 50 Portrait Series:

Amanda Faucett50 Over 50Comment