2025 40 Over 40 Series: Michelle Fadely
“Life is short, so make it count. Chase your dreams. Try new things. It’s never too late to become who you want to be. Don’t let hardships make you hard—let them make you kind. I believe in being a ripple of kindness, hoping that it spreads outward and touches others.“
Michelle’s story:
Where do I begin?
At 43, I look back at the fiery 23-year-old single mom I once was—full of life, courage, and hope—who fell in love with a military man. Leaving behind everything I knew—my family, my support system—was terrifying. But I followed my heart and built a new life. I thought I was independent back then, but I had no idea how much strength and growth my 40s would bring.
Being married to someone in the military meant handling a lot on my own. That became my normal. I managed, I adapted, and I grew. But nothing truly tested my strength—or my faith—like what happened in August 2015. My oldest, just 12 years old at the time, was diagnosed with Burkitt’s Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Before that, I always believed everything happened for a reason, that God had a plan—even through the hard times. But I used to say, “If something ever happened to one of my children, I don’t know if I could still believe that.” And then it did. My faith was shaken, but somehow, it held. I leaned into the belief that there was a reason greater than I could understand.
Nearly a decade later, my son is 23 and living his dream in NYC—healthy, thriving, and a constant reminder of how far we’ve come. Just after he went into remission, his biological father passed away suddenly. That was just one of several deep losses I’ve faced in the last 10 years—each one a painful but powerful reminder that life is fragile and precious.
I now live by this truth: Life is short, so make it count. Chase your dreams. Try new things. It’s never too late to become who you want to be. Don’t let hardships make you hard—let them make you kind. I believe in being a ripple of kindness, hoping that it spreads outward and touches others.
Now in my 40s, I’ve learned to let go of what I can’t control, to change what I can, and to surrender the rest. I still care deeply—but I also know when to release. And I’ve realized that the things that matter most are often the things we can’t control. That’s where faith steps in.
To every woman reading this: your story matters. Your strength may be quiet, but it’s powerful. Share your story. Live boldly. Be kind. You never know who’s watching—and who you might be inspiring without even knowing it.
What are some of the rewarding parts of the current decade you are in? The challenges?
One of the most rewarding parts of being in my 40s is the clarity and confidence that come with truly knowing who I am. I’ve let go of needing to please everyone and learned to focus on what truly matters—faith, family, and purpose. Watching my children grow and seeing the results of years of hard work is incredibly fulfilling.
The challenges have been real, too—loss, unexpected changes, and learning to surrender control. But through it all, I’ve found strength I didn’t know I had. This decade has taught me to live more intentionally, let go, and trust the journey—even when it’s hard.
What has been your favorite decade you have lived through and why?
In my 20s, I learned to take chances. I followed my heart, made bold moves, and started building the life I dreamed of—even when it was scary. That decade was about courage and discovery.
In my 30s, I discovered strength I didn’t know I had. Life threw some heavy challenges my way, but I showed up, held it together, and kept going—especially for my family. That decade was about endurance and resilience.
Now in my 40s, I’m learning to love the woman my 20s and 30s built. I see now that I’m stronger than I ever imagined, and capable of doing anything I set my mind to. This decade is about confidence, self-love, and fully owning my story.
If given the opportunity, what would you do differently?
Honestly, nothing. Every experience—the good, the hard, and the in-between—has shaped who I am today. It’s all led me to this moment. I believe life still has more lessons for me to learn, and I’m open to them.
What was your top life lesson that you’ve never forgotten and have lived by?
Live live intentionally and don’t leave words unsaid.
What has bought you the most joy in your life?
My husband and my 3 boys.
What was your experience like working with Brandi Stage Portraiture as a part of the 40 Over 40 Project?
I had a blast working with Brandi. From my glam time getting my hair and makeup done, to following Brandi’s lead with poses. I felt confident in front of the camera. As someone who doesn’t smile big in photos, those ended up being some of my favorite pictures!
You are more beautiful than you know!
To book your own fabulous Portrait Session, contact us through the inquiry form below.
Much love,
Brandi
International Award-Winning Portrait Photographer
Brandi Stage is a portrait photographer recognized by the prestigious International Photography Awards and based in Diamondhead, MS. She creates an exceptional magazine-style photo shoot and timeless heirloom portraits for women, men, children and pets in her studio or on location.