18/06/2026
Today my heart is heavy. 🥲
Over the years at Vanilla Blush, I have had the privilege of meeting thousands of incredible people. Some become customers, some become models, some become advocates, and some become friends.
This week I learned that two beautiful women who were part of our Vanilla Blush family, Joanne and Michelle, have both sadly passed away.
They never met each other, but they shared something powerful. Both lived with a stoma. Both faced challenges with courage and determination. Both helped show others that life, confidence, beauty and femininity do not end after surgery.
They modelled for Vanilla Blush at a time when many people still felt unable to show their bodies after life-changing surgery. By stepping in front of the camera, they helped others find confidence, dignity and self-belief. They showed that scars, stomas and surgery are part of a person’s story, but never the whole story.
Looking back at these photographs, I don’t just see models. I see strength, humour, resilience and kindness. I see two women who helped make a difference to so many people simply by being themselves.
These photographs now mean even more to me. They remind me that behind every image is a person, a story and a life that mattered.
I feel incredibly grateful to have known Joanne and Michelle, and to have shared a small part of their journeys.
My thoughts are with their families, friends and everyone whose lives they touched.
Thank you, Joanne.
Thank you, Michelle.
You will both be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever part of the Vanilla Blush story. ❤️ 💔 RIP 🕯️ 🙏
