Stephanie was taken by helicopter to a hospital where she underwent skin grafting surgeries on her thighs and arms. She is burned on 20% of her body. In the hospital she had some of the best and worst experiences. She explained that part of her recovery treatments included debridement, which is when dead or severely burned skin is scraped off so new cells can grow (this would happen every two days in her case). She recalls there was a day when she was not provided with the proper pain medication and she felt an indescribable pain - this was the worst pain she had ever endured. Through all of the suffering, she also felt loved by her caregivers. 

In the hospital, Stephanie struggled with depression and PTSD, she thought she would never recover. One of the persistent thoughts that plagued her was knowing how her father must have felt when he perished in a fiery plane crash 13 years prior to her accident. She realized that she needed help and started working with a life coach. This helped her work through her trauma and be able to cultivate positive coping skills. Stephanie is now a certified life coach, specializing in trauma. She is a published author and has created the KAL Therapy model. KAL is an acronym for knowledge, awareness, and love. Through these three strengths, one can free oneself from suffering, develop a new self confidence and trust in life, and find fulfillment. You can find her book, "Un jour, Demain s'Arretera", on Amazon.  Stephanie has also created A Survivors Guide to Healing - Transform Your Scars, which can be downloaded for free from her website stephanieromeo.com 

During our interview, one thing that Stephanie said that stood out to me was "In scars, we can see courage, strength and resilience. In scars, we can witness the power of life." Stephanie has so much knowledge to share for anyone dealing with any kind of trauma - physical or emotional. She had dedicated her life to helping others. 

Kalleen is burned on 75% of her body and was given a less than 20% survival rate. She remained in the hospital for 2 months and received multiple types of grafts - cadaver, pig, and synthetic skin. Her body ended up rejecting all of the grafts and they were forced to only use her own skin for grafting. This was a difficult task, considering the majority of her body was burned. Kalleen made a remarkably fast recovery and chose to leave the hospital and the soonest possible moment. She chose to continue recovering at home so she could be with her husband and children. 

* I met Katleen through a Facebook burn survivor group. 

Natalie was injured during Covid, which was a blessing in disguise. Due to virtual learning, she was able to remain home for her 5th grade year. This gave her the opportunity to heal and become accustomed to her scars before returning to school. She completed her 6th grade school year back in public school; she stated that overall her peers were supportive and kind. Natalie explained that her mom is her biggest support system, but she also relies on her friends. She explained that her mom's boyfriend is also a burn survivor and he was helpful during her recovery process. Natalie has begun attending Mid Atlantic Burn Camp and stated that meeting other burn survivors has been inspirational. She has accepted her scars and doesn't let anything hold her back. Natalie would like to share the positive message that baby steps are important in recovery and to not rush the process. 

* A personal note from the author: I became acquainted with Ashley, Natalie's mom through a Facebook burn group. Her mom posted in the group stating her daughter was interested in attending a local burn camp, but she was unsure if she should send her. I immediately reached out to her and encouraged her to allow Natalie to attend the camp, as I had attended the same camp throughout my entire childhood and into my teenage years. Natalie ended up going to camp and loving it! I was finally able to meet them, after a year and a half of communicating, and have Natalie join the project. 

Angela was airlifted to Flynt and hospitalized for one month and was in a medically induced coma for one week. For her first surgery she received cadaver skin. The cadaver skin was left on for five days, then removed and they used her own skin for grafting. You can see the graft sites on Angela's back and arms. Due to the grafting, one of her tattoos that used to be on her back is now on her thigh. Angela endured five surgeries, two laser treatments, and steroid injections. She does not have any further surgeries scheduled or needed at this time. 

Angela explained that she deals with PTSD after the accident, but as more time passes it becomes less severe. We spoke about how she has dealt with frustration around her physical limitations while healing. She is a nurse and is used to caring for others, having it be the other way around was difficult to accept. She explained that she still deals with a feeling of regret for not having the furnace serviced before turning it on. Through all of these things, Angela has a positive outlook and she has radically accepted her scars. She is back to work as a nurse and doesn't let anything stop her. Some of the coping skills that have been most helpful to her are talking baby steps, therapy, and taking control. She explained that taking baby steps and not rushing the healing process was important. to her recovery. Even though she did not heal as fast as she would have liked, she healed quickly due to performing the physical and occupational therapy exercises constantly. Ultimately, she took control of her recovery, she did everything she could to progress physically and emotionally on a daily basis. 

*A note from the author: I met Angela through a Facebook group for burn survivors. Her and her husband drove 600 miles from Michigan to Maryland on a motorcycle! They stayed in Baltimore for a couple days - it was wonderful getting to know them. 

Jae Jae was hospitalized for 6 weeks and deemed 30% burned. As treatment, she received skin grafts, using her own skin. Since skin grafts tend to become thick and raised, she had to wear pressure garments to help with the healing process. Her mother explained that since she was so young and didn't understand that she needed to wear a mask pressure garment on her face, she would constantly pull it off. Jae Jae explained that her scalp was badly burned and her hair no longer grew on a large portion of her head. When she was seven year old she had cosmetic reconstructive surgery to regrow hair; she had tissue expanders inserted into her scalp to reconstruct her hairline. The expanders are slowly inflated over a period of weeks so the surgeon can harvest a large patch of skin where healthy hair follicles grow. They then replace the heavily scarred skin with the newly harvested patch. As she got older, she also had eye reconstruction to help it properly close and scar reduction on her face. Jae Jae explained that she has no further need for surgeries at this time and she is happy in her own skin. She stated that she has never been held back by her scars and has always been a confident young woman. She explained that she has never been bullied by her peers or treated any different by anyone in her family. She never viewed herself as having limitations. Jae Jae explained that it is important to come to terms with who you are and not compare yourself to others. Once we fully accept ourselves we can move past our flaws and embrace our beauty. 

*A note from the author: Jae Jae and her mom traveled to Baltimore from Florida to participate in the Untitled Project after seeing one of the stories posted on a Facebook burn survivor group's page. She is also friends with Christiany Carleson, who participated in the project last year. It was great to spend the day with Jae Jae and her mom, they are awesome women and I am blessed to have met them. 

Once in the ambulance, Katy's body swelled so severely that the paramedics had to split the skin on the back of her arms and legs so that her skin would not burst from the pressure. Katy and her grandfather were airlifted and placed in a medically induced coma. They were initially flown to Roanoke, but not admitted since their burns were too severe for their medical staff. They were then flown to UVA burn unit, where they were both treated. Katy was 88% burned and not expected to survive. The medical team thought they would have to remove her fingers, lips, and nose due to the extent of her injuries, but in the end, she was able to keep them. Katy was in a coma for one month. Once her treatment at UVA was complete, she was flown to Shriners for 4 months. She would return to Shriners every 6 weeks for surgeries. Once released from care, she returned home in a wheelchair and was not expected to walk. Katy only remained wheelchair bound for 1 year; she was determined to be independent and walk on her own. Katy has had 111 surgeries  - the most recent was in September of 2021. She does not have any upcoming surgeries scheduled at this time. Unfortunately her grandfather only survived for 10 days after the accident. 

Katy explained that she does have some physical limitations, but she is fully and independently functioning. She went through extensive physical therapy for her physical wellbeing and a childhood trauma therapist for her emotional wellbeing. She also pulls support from her family and friends. One year after her injury, she got involved with the Central Virginia Burn Camp. She explained that being involved with the camp was a huge part of her emotional recovery. When I asked her what coping strategies have been helpful for her she stated that she knows that her grandfather sacrificed himself for her and that she wants to honor him with her life. She also explained that she focuses on her blessings and the love that she has in her life. 

Katy is strong, brilliant, and beautiful. 

*A note from the author: Katy and her husband traveled from Virginia to Baltimore for her to participate in the project after seeing my post in a Facebook group for burn survivors. They stayed with myself and my family for the weekend. We were able to get to know them and I found a kindred spirit with Katy. I am proud to call them my friends. I am so glad our paths have crossed. 

Laresa was airlifted to Johns Hopkins and hospitalized there for six months. While recovering in the hospital, she contracted pneumonia and treated with an antibiotic through a vein in leg. The vein blew and caused her to loose two toes. As part of her recovery process, she received skin grafts from her own body. Laresa was also treated at Shriners from ten to sixteen years old. This is where she got the tissue expanded on her face and arm. She also received laser surgery at thirteen years old in attempts to thin and soften the scar tissue, but her skin did not respond well to the treatment. She currently does not have any surgical procedures scheduled at this time, but she is considering a cosmetic procedure for her nose. 

Laresa explained that she was homeschooled from 4th-7th grade because the kids were cruel when she tried to return to school after her accident. She went back to public school in the 7th grade, which was a difficult adjustment. She explained that she stayed to herself until she found a group of friends who accepted her and she could trust. In her high school years, she became more comfortable sharing her story and showing her scars. 

There are still days that are difficult and when your self-esteem is effected, but during the emotionally low times, she leans on her faith. Laresa explains that prayer helps pull her out of negative thoughts. 

*A personal note: I met Laresa when we were around twelve years old at Mid Atlantic Burn Camp. I was instantly drawn to how beautiful and confident she was. She was always someone I looked up to. We had the opportunity to be exchange campers in England when we were thirteen. I consider her one of my best friends and couldn't have completed this project without her being part of it. 

Jolene Chinn Swartz was injured when she was 10 years old, while living in China. She went on an errand to purchase oil for the lanterns that they used to light their home. The shop owner accidentally sold her kerosene. That night when the lantern was lit, it exploded. She described the experience as intense as fireworks going off inside of her house. Jolene’s clothing caught fire and as she ran through the house her sister’s coat also caught fire. Jolene’s father smothered the flames on both children and sustained burns to his legs in the process. 

Jolene and her family lived in a rural village and had no transportation. Jolene’s mother and father had to carry both children to the nearest hospital, which was 45 minutes away. Once they arrived, they could not be treated because the burns were too severe. Jolene’s parents rented a public transport bus to take them to the nearest major hospital, which was 2 hours away. Once they arrived, Jolene slipped into a coma for several days. Jolene remained in the hospital for 3 months, but was sent home and refused any further care once their funds ran out. Jolene’s family sold everything they had, borrowed money from friends and family, and even resorted to begging on the street. They were able to come up with enough money to get her a few more short hospital stays to take care of infections and allow her wounds time to properly heal. A year and a half after the accident, Jolene was well enough to attend school. At this point, she was unable to walk so her parents carried her to and from school each day. She was determined to not give up. 

When Jolene was 13 years old, she went to a news station to do an interview talking about her burns. While there, her mother met an American woman. The American was very interested in Jolene’s story and it was evident that Jolene still needed many surgeries if she was going to be able to walk again. The woman networked with the Shriner’s hospital and was able to sponsor Jolene to come to America to get the remaining surgeries she needed. When Jolene was 14 she arrived in the U.S. and received multiple surgeries, including amputation of both feet above the ankle. Due to not receiving proper surgeries, occupational therapy, and physical therapy while in China her scars contracted so severely that she lost the ability to walk. After her U.S. treatment was complete she was fitted for prosthetics and was up and walking within 6 months. 

The American family was so fond of Jolene that they offered to adopt her. Jolene and her family agreed that remaining in America would provide her with the best opportunity. At 14 Jolene started learning English and attending public high school. When she left China, she was doing 5th grade work, when she started school in the U.S. she was placed into a 9th grade classroom. She stated that she was overwhelmed by the new culture, language, school, and medical care, but she was excited for a better future. She spent all of her waking hours doing school work and learning the language. Jolene graduated high school and went on to university. 

Jolene explained that what gets her through difficult times is her family support. She currently works with Hand Reach, which is an organization that goes to China and educates healthcare workers and local families about burn care. They teacher them how to properly change bandages, keep wounds clean, and the importance of physical therapy after an injury. 

This is Megan Smith she is a burn survivor from North Carolina. She was burned at age 21 while working at a restaurant. She was standing next to the fireplace when someone opened the door; the small gust of wind was just enough to ignite the fire and light her skirt. She was wearing a long skirt, as part of her uniform. She attempted to pat out the fire with her hands, but her acrylic nails combusted and her hands and arms were now engulfed. One of the workers wrapped her in his work jacket and put out the fire. 

She spent the next few months in the hospital. During her hospital stay she coded three times. Megan explained that her life truly flashed before her eyes and she saw a bright light. She had to fight hard to survive. Megan was unable to speak for 3 years after her accident due to complications from a breathing tube and needing a trach. This healing process was slow; she has endured over 200 surgeries. 

Megan explained that she received cadaver skin on her hands that was black market and contaminated. There was a man named Michael Mastromarino, who was illegally harvesting cadaver skin from funeral homes. This man was selling it on the black market to hospitals - the black market skin was not put through the rigorous testing for diseases and contamination like legally harvested skin would be. Unfortunately, Megan received some of this skin on her hands, it caused her to lose several fingers. 

Megan said that some of the things that helped her through this very difficult time was her daughter, who was six years old at the time. She knew that she had to get better so she could continue being a mom. Megan also had her father who was her biggest support system; he was her caregiver until she was able to care for herself. She has accepted her new skin and exudes such confidence. She currently volunteers on a burn ward and talks to burn patients and their families about the recovery process and how to thrive after trauma. 

* A personal note from the author

I met Megan through a Facebook burn survivor group. She messaged me one day just saying she loved the project and that she is a volunteer on a burn ward as well as a burn survivor herself. I asked if she would like to be part of the project and she agreed! She drove to Baltimore from North Carolina and spent two days with me and my family. It was so fun getting to know her. She is such a special woman. She is fearless and her energy is contagious. I am blessed to call her a friend. 

Upon returning back to her village, her mother was forbidden to return to the home for several weeks. She was being punished for leaving her baby unattended and this terrible tragedy taking place. The participant's father and grandmother cared for her during the weeks her mother was banished. Her family was very poor and could not afford medical care. Every day her grandmother would go down to the river and dig for clay then return to the home and smother her burns with the mineral rich earth. This would pull the heat from the leg and allow it to heal. There were several days where the participant slipped into a coma - her eyes were rolled back in her head and she was unresponsive. Her grandmother and father called a friend to come help them dig a grave for the participant, they were sure she wouldn't live much longer. The day her grave was scheduled to be dug, she awoke from the coma and showed signs of healing. As the weeks went by her toes began to wither and fall off. It is remarkable that she was able to recover from such a severe injury without the help of traditional medicine or skin grafting. 

* A note from the author: The participant became acquainted with the author's mother in 1985 soon after the author was burned. They met in church and became friends that had bonded over survival stories. The two women lost touch a couple of years later. Once the author made social media posts promoting the project a mutual friend passed along the Untitled Project information to the participant. The participant came to realize that the author was the baby who was burned in 1985 was the creator or the project. She quickly reached out and joined the project and I am thrilled to have her!

*A note from the author: I met Theresa in a Facebook group for burn survivors. She reached out to me stating she was interested in participating in The Untitled Project. We spoke on the phone and set up a quick trip. Theresa flew in from Michigan. I picked her up from the airport and got to spend the day taking pictures, visiting a few beautiful locations around Baltimore, and celebrating Cinco De Mayo together. It was a fun day, but definitely not enough time! I hope to see this beautiful lady again soon!

*A note from the author: I met Chrissy in a Facebook group for burn survivors. She reached out saying she was interested in participating the the project. Once I spoke with her I knew she would be a wonderful addition. She flew in from Minneapolis and spent the weekend with me and my family. We had such a wonderful time talking, taking pictures, shopping, and wandering around Baltimore. I took her to all of my favorite spots (Federal Hill, Graffiti Alley, Hampden, and Ellicott City). We connected on a sisterly level and I can't wait to see her again!

* A note from the author: I met Louise in a Facebook group for burn survivors. She reached out to me and asked if I would be a guest on her podcast. I jumped at the opportunity and asked if she would be willing to be part of the Untitled Project as well. When she agreed, my husband and I headed to New Jersey to meet Louise at the SOS Radio Station. We has a wonderful time getting to know Louise. She is kind, hospitable, and totally fashionable. I look forward to spending more time with my new sweet friend. 

*A note from the author: Amira was referred to me to join the project by a friend. It wasn't until I spoke with Amira's mother that I realized she also attended Mid Atlantic Burn Camp; Amira was a camper during the same years I was a counselor. It's such a small world. I am always amazed at how we are all connected. 

*A note from the author: June was referred to me by a previous coworker, Alysse. Alysse explained that she was at that party and was right next her June walking and talking with her when she tripped and fell into the fire. She explained that she froze when it happened and was in shock seeing the whole tragedy transpire. It's interesting to find out just how many people know someone who has been burned. If you know someone who has been burned and would like to be part of the project, please pass along my information. I would love to be able to tell their story.
 

* A note from the Author: Jessica was referred to me to join the project by one of her nurses on her burn unit who I am friends with. Jessica reached out to me on Facebook and was interested but non-comital at first. It took a few posts of other participants for her to reach back out and schedule her time in the studio. Even though she is vivacious and confident, it still took courage to join in on the project. It's different from simply getting your picture taken. It's allowing someone you barely know take pictures of the part of your body that you are most insecure about. I am so thankful that Jessica trusted me to capture these gorgeous images. I am looking forward to photographing her maternity, baby shower, and newborn sessions. Stay tuned for more from Jessica.

This is Paulisa Mosley. She was a couple of months old when she sustained her injury. A family member was smoking a cigarette while changing her diaper. Some of the ash fell from the cigarette and landed on the diaper; this caused the diaper to catch fire. It was quickly removed from her body, but a flaming piece detached and fell on Paulisa's inner thigh. She explained that as a young person she felt that if she had any scarring or blemishes that she would be undesirable. It took time for her to become comfortable with the imperfection. Paulisa explained that she thought she was fine with the scar until it came time for her to do this project. She explained that she was feeling anxious and uncomfortable, but wanted to do it to overcome her emotions. Paulisa is strong, resilient, and loving. I am grateful that she chose to be part of the project and share her story. 

A note from the author: I met Paulisa when we were teenagers, we both attended the same summer camp. Mid Atlantic Burn Camp was a crucial part of my childhood and my self-acceptance. It has also connected me with countless incredible people. Paulisa was a couple of years younger than me, but I looked up to her. She was tough, I was not. When I reached out to Paulisa and asked if she would be willing to be part of The Untitled Project, she didn't jump at the chance. It took a little persuading, but she did it! She was initially worried that her scar was not significant enough and that the placement would make it difficult to photograph. My feeling is that no matter how large or small the scar, if it has impacted you, then your story must be told. 

* A note from the author: Abbie was a student at Parkville High School while I was a teacher there. I never taught her, but I recognized her from the hallway. I was amazed when she reached out to me a few weeks ago to join this project. It’s crazy how you can be so close to people and not be aware of their personal struggles or how closely you might relate to them. Always be mindful of how your story might be able to inspire others.

A note from the author: Brianna was referred to me by a previous coworker. When I spoke with Brianna for the first time about the project she said, "I normally hide my scar, so this will be interesting." I knew at that moment that she was going to get a lot out of this project; the whole purpose of it is to not hide our imperfections. When Brianna came to my studio, she pointed out that she had painted her nails red. She explained that she doesn't usually paint her nails or wear jewelry on her scarred hand as to keep from bringing attention to it. But on this day, she embellished her hand with a ring and polish. She requested that I edit one of her pictures to show the red nails. I am forever proud of her for being so bold!

A Note from the author: I met Heather when I was 12 at Mid Atlantic Burn Camp. She was the cool counselor and everyone wanted to be in her group. Everyone looked up to her because she was strong and not embarrassed by her scars. She was fun and adventurous. When I became an adult and went back to MABC as a counselor, I was lucky enough to work along side her and learn from her. When I put this project together, I knew she had to be part of it. I am grateful that she was my first participant. 

Be brave, be strong, be courageous. You are beautiful.

I approximately 30% burned and have lived with my scars my entire life; I was burned at 10 months. Being a burn survivor does not define me, but it has had a significant impact on my life. As you view entries to this project I hope you see beauty. My goal is for each viewer to get a glimpse into the soul of the individuals brave enough to make art with me. The vision is for each participant to get more confident exposing the parts of them that they see as imperfections.