2025 40 Over 40 Series: Susan Prestridge
“You have to take the lessons learned and input in life to make you the person you want or become. It may take time but lessons are there for reasons. I would not trade it for anything.“
Susan’s story:
Geez… I have no idea where to begin…I was tickled pink when Brandi called. I was beyond excited. I am a retired registered nurse along with a certified pharmacy tech and phlebotomist. But I have held my share of other jobs working at the casinos, hardware stores and food places but medical has always been my life.
I followed my mom’s and grandmother footsteps as far as being an R.N. I have been through so many trials and tribulations as well as pain, suffering, loss, failed marriages and relationships that led to abuse mentally, physically and emotionally. I lost my dad and my grandpa in 1997 six months apart then lost my only son, Timothy Cameron, in February of 1999 fours days before his 7th birthday. Boy, did my world come crashing down and it came hard too. I lost my way in life as well as my faith in God. I couldn’t understand why the very people I loved so much was taken from me and I had anger.
Then, I moved to get away from everything that reminded me of my happy, peaceful life that I once enjoyed. Later in life I realized God doesn’t call his angels home until they are needed and I realized He never left my side. He was always walking beside me waiting for me to trust in Him again. I did! Until I lost my mom August 2020 and my world fell even more apart than before. I went through a couple years of depression. I didn’t care about anything.
Slowly, I got back on track and reached out to my younger brother Chad. I told him I wanted to start coming back to church and he said, “GREAT!!”. One thing after another held me from going but I finally made it. I told him I wanted to get baptized. He said, “That awesome. We can do that.” I said but only on one condition, you have to do it!! Well November 2024 my baby brother baptized me at our church, The House of Refuge with pastor’s Brad and Stacey. I have always been a woman of God and my faith. I can honestly say that if it was not for my faith, I wouldn’t be standing here today as this strong amazing woman who battles with medical conditions on a daily basis that sometimes puts me down days at a time to where I can’t walk or function but Im still waking up with air in my lungs, blood running thru my veins and my eyes open. So yes, I may have been put through some terrible things that most wouldn’t dream of, BUT Im grateful and Thankful and Blessed every day that God never gave up on me as well as my family/friends and my church! Live life to the fullest every day! Enjoy those happy moments even the sad moments. ALWAYS smile because you never know who it will affect and make their day! Always take pictures and tell those friends and family you love them when you can! Life is too short to be angry or unhappy! We are not promised tomorrow, only today! So live your life every day.
What are some of the rewarding parts of the current decade you are in? The challenges?
Well my biggest reward was being baptized by my baby brother November 17th, 2024 and finally having a home I can call mine.
The challenges are my medical conditions that sometimes put me down days at time. Having to deal with the medical system for people on disability can be very aggravating at times.
What has been your favorite decade you have lived through and why?
This one can be a bit tricky, but my early 20’s because I had my son enjoying life.
My 30’s because I found me again and opened up my soul and found God again. My 40’s because if my sister and mom wouldn’t have been there when they were to help pick up the pieces, I would have been more lost than I was.
My 50’s because I got baptized and enjoying life for me. Back to quilting , walking, swimming and enjoying life and doing what’s best for me… ENJOYING LIFE!!
If given the opportunity, what would you do differently?
Honestly, I wouldn’t change anything because everything I have gone through is what has made me this wonderful amazing stronger loving woman. You have to take the lessons learned and input in life to make you the person you want or become. It may take time but lessons are there for reasons. I would not trade it for anything.
What was your top life lesson that you’ve never forgotten and have lived by?
My dad, my mom, and my grandma always told me, “Susan, now make sure you put your big girl panties on today because this world can be cruel at times and you you go on and get out there cause they are waiting for you! They want to see what you have to offer.” That saying has always stuck with me since I was 15 years old and still does till this day.
What has bought you the most joy in your life?
Well my family, my son, my friends, and of course my faith in God!
What was your experience like working with Brandi Stage Portraiture as a part of the 40 Over 40 Project?
Geez, Brandi is one awesome special lady with a heart of gold. She was very polite and professional. The atmosphere was amazing with the music which I absolutely loved and how relaxing it was and so peaceful. I was nervous at first but then she made it so easy and put me at ease that before I knew it we were done.
I would have to say if you want to get your pictures done or even a family photo shoot done this would be the lady to see. She knows what to do. She picks out your best side of you and makes it shine! I had the best time and hope to do it again! Thank you Brandi for everything! I loved it and had the best birthday ever! You will never know how thankful and blessed I feel for this opportunity!
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.