Sally Wolf: Cancer has taught me no picture tells a full story.

Sally Wolf, CEO and Founder of LightWorks, shared on LinkedIn:

“Cancer has taught me no picture tells a full story.

I just snapped this selfie in honor of World Mental Health Day. Before I head uptown for what should be a fun b-roll shoot for my first national television interview.

And yet I am heavily distracted by the ongoing terror in Israel, the silence of so many about it, and the never-ending and growing antisemitism elsewhere.

Other days I am feeling some level of fear tied to my Stage IV cancer. Yes, I feel incredible hope and gratitude, but it’s a dance, and the light coexists with darker feelings.

And almost always, since childhood, I have navigated substantial anxiety. Before every exam and paper in school. Before every big presentation at work. Before every press opportunity – like in this very minute.

So as I head uptown, all dolled up, I carry all of this with me.

My smile will no doubt naturally come out as we shoot; I am deeply grateful I get to share my personal story specifically to inspire hope for others. But I am not hiding the rest – the distraction, the fear, the anxiety – because those are part of who I am, and by embracing, honoring and sharing our full selves, we can inspire others to do the same.

What is something behind your smile? I’d love to know in the comments, especially if you share a beautiful photo of you so others can see your glow, too!

Photo: Me showcasing the natural “Sally Smile” my parents worked hard to perfect during our many photoshoots over the years! In a simple black sweater against a blurred white background.”

Source: Sally Wolf/LinkedIn