Atsuko Morita- Breast Cancer Survivor

«« Please drag the arrows to see before & after underwater transformation »»

My name is Atsuko Morita. I was born and raised in Sennan city, Osaka. I am an artist and I do bartending for a living. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in April, 2021. I had a mastectomy surgery in July. The Physical therapy started from September and I was taking Tamoxifen. (hormone therapy drug)

What inspired you to be involved in the Underwater Transformation Project?

Erena inspired me with her passion for her photography project. I really wanted to help her achieving her goal and I believe through her photography project; more people will be inspired and motivated.

What were your plans for the photo shoot?

I am also a photographer so I care about the images. I just want to be a good model for Erena to create what she is looking for. I think she is looking for my true self. I didn’t expect anything but I just let myself be free and the result was wonderful, enjoyable experience.

How was the experience with an underwater portrait session?

First nervous. Very difficult to pose. Once you stop thinking too much, focus on enjoying in water and let Erena takes photos, I felt more freedom and easier to be natural.

How was your mood after you finished?

I felt relaxed and calm. After the photo session, my muscle felt less tension.

From the medication I have been taking for a while, my muscle and joint has been stiff and sometimes painful. Water has some healing power to loosen up my body. It even works for brain chemicals. I felt relaxed and more connected with the photographer, Erena. I felt good that we did this project together.

How did you sleep the night of the photo shoot?

I slept better than usual days!

What does water mean to you?

Water is an element of relaxation. Water has a natural calming effect on the body and mind.

I love floating in water (ocean , swimming pool, hot springs)

When I meditate, I close my eyes and I imagine myself floating in water all the time.

What is your dream? What’s your future?

I used to dream and has more goals. Without goals I felt lost and meaningless. I worked very hard. But now, I am trying to live happy every day. Try to do only what I want to do without having any set goals. In a way, I live in the moment.

Do you think this experience could help overcome your trauma?

While you are in water, you don’t think about issues in life and focus on the images what Erena will capture. This photo shoot makes me want to be in water more often to release stress physically and mentally. I would like to do more photo shoot with Erena. Next time I want to swim in a tropical ocean with lots of fish with goggles on. 😊

How was Erena working with you?

She worked with me perfectly. She listens and she gave me suggestions and etc.

Erena has a great energy and you can trust her. Like a warm and calm water, she has a healing power.

Would you recommend underwater transformation to other survivors or anyone?

Yes. I recommend anyone to be in the water with Erena. You are cured and healed.

Atsuko is an awesome artist and a photographer. Please check out her website at
https://www.atsukophotography.com/