Another Example of The Healing Power of Style

I am constantly overwhelmed and inspired by the brief and powerful interactions I have with people I meet on the streets of New York. Oftentimes I am left breathless by the insight and wisdom shared by those that I approach and have realized that style and personal expression can have a profound effect on the way we live our lives.

This week I met an incredible woman named Marta Ventos, while walking down Madison Avenue. When I told Marta how beautiful she looked, she began to tell me that she is in New York from Spain, seeking treatment for cancer. She explained that she was wearing a head wrap due to hair loss and  that she always has a positive outlook on life. I asked Marta if she would answer a few questions and share her story on Advanced Style. She happily agreed, check out her wonderful responses below:

"This is my second Cancer in three years and I have never used "peluca" that means fake hair. I always prefer to change the look of the day depending on how I am dressed.I have found beautiful hats and foulards and I myself make different arrangements. I never want to give the image of a person with an illness, even I have never thought that I have a cancer, and in some way that helps me."

1.How does dressing up affect your mood and ability to deal with your illness?

It helps me to join ordinary life instead of retreating from normal activities.

2. Have you always had a love of style and personal expression?
Yes, always

3. On trying days what inspires you to put yourself together and look your best?

To think that there are always others in worst conditions than me: I can't complain.

4. Any Advice to people dealing with an illness?

Everyone has their own recipe. I have never think about the fact that I have an illness.

5.Has your style changed in the last few years?

No, I have never follow trends, even in furniture, which I am working with, I like the intemporal, not fashion.