Dedication
Sunrise Enigma is dedicated to the memory of Alexandra Grace Witter whose all too brief 29 years left an indelible mark on the world.
Alex lived life with daring, quiet courage, humility, enormous compassion, and love of her family and friends.
The world is more beautiful because Alex lived.
What is Sunrise Enigma?
My son has a philosophy that you should live life so that it is a story worth telling your grandkids. He lives this philosophy with more poignancy since he lost his soul mate, Alexandra, in a tragic accident. I have adopted my son’s philosophy but want to share my story and the beautiful sunrise images that have come from it well before I have grandkids!
Sunrise Enigma evolved from all the inspiration and encouragement I received, as well as the lessons learned and challenges overcome, before and during my encounter with breast cancer. Breast cancer was a challenge that did not come alone. In the same week as my diagnosis Alex was tragically killed in a traffic accident. In the previous twelve months life had also thrown me some other challenges: aggressive skin cancer requiring surgery and skin grafting; the discovery that my narcissistic husband was leading a double life; months of detective work to find out just how duplicitous he had been; finding a safe way of separating from him; and Leesa, the mother of my youngest son’s fiancée, also sadly passed away from cancer.
Early in my breast cancer treatment a good friend advised me that I needed to get fit for the road ahead. That advice started me on my sunrise beach walks. I started taking photos of the sunrise and soon the walks became incidental to the photos! I hope that in my story and daily blog you will find inspiration to rise to whatever challenge you are facing.
Mary-Anne
The People Who Inspired
No telling of my story would be complete without first acknowledging the people who have been such a positive and integral part of it.
I had support from so many people: three wonderful sons, my incredible Mum and Dad, a large and loving family, amazing friends, and everyone associated with my multiple cancer treatments, especially my exceptional family doctor. I can rely on every one of them for great advice, a push when needed, help to see things clearly and most importantly a really good laugh!
Four of these wonderful people have been instrumental in the creation of Sunrise Enigma.
Alexandra
Who dared to live a life not ordinary, inspires me to make the most of every moment and to try to live life fearlessly.
Linda
My best friend since childhood roller skating days, made me appreciate how everything and everyone in my life had led me to the point where I could again be daring.
Tracey
Inspires me with her daring, creativity, tenacity and energy. Her generosity of spirit is uplifting.
Shane
My long lost but now found friend, helped me discover that Nature is a great healer of mind and body. His encouragement, clarity of thought and ability to make me laugh are priceless.