Every now and then as a stylist, you get an opportunity that goes beyond just doing someone’s hair. Our #frescheEPP allows us to have this chance every month. However, our September model’s story goes a bit beyond that.

After Ian Sheffield’s wife, Kristen, came into the salon as a client, we knew we needed to select both of them for our next project and photo shoot. Theirs is a beautiful love story, but one that has endured unimaginable heartache and tragedy. We are so thankful to be just a small part of their story, and to have the opportunity to give them a day of smiles and laughter together!

Ian is a 38-year-old native of Lilburn. He is a Beatles fan and avid guitar player, but he can no longer perform the songs of his inspiration, John Lennon. A writer with an Associate’s degree, Ian had returned to school, hoping to complete a Bachelor’s degree in English. Just four classes shy of graduating, Ian is no longer able to write.

In the summer of 2008, Ian learned he had an inoperable brain tumor. The diagnosis came just six weeks after he and Kristin were married. On June 14, 2008, they came together in marriage on the one-year anniversary of their first date. However, their new life together was now something entirely different.

In the years that followed, Ian underwent two brain biopsies, two rounds of radiation, 6 1/2 years of various chemotherapies, over 50 MRI’s, and an incalculable number of appointments with various doctors and specialists.

On September 4th, Ian was moved into hospice care. He is at home, with Kristen, enjoying each day.