Wisdom Woven In: Alison Conklin – On Loss, Gratitude, and Bonus Days

Our Wisdom Woven In series is rooted in sharing the lived experiences of those who’ve faced serious illness with clarity, creativity, and heart. Alison Conklin—a photographer, heart transplant recipient, and founder of Bonus Days Magazine—embodies all of that and more.

We first met through her beautiful publication, and her presence was so grounding we knew her voice needed to be part of this series. What follows is a window into Alison’s story—in her own words.

"Instead of saying 'I have to' say 'I get to!' Everything is a gift when you reframe your perspective." - Alison Conklin

Find Alison's label on size XL of our sun-safe hoodies!

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

“I am a wife, a mom to two adult sons and have been a storyteller my entire life. Sometimes it is with a camera and sometimes with words. I lost my mother when I was 14 to a heart disease I had been diagnosed with a few months prior. I am an advocate for heart health and organ donation. I love going on big adventures and staying home in comfy clothes binge watching my favorite shows.”

2. What life experience shaped your perspective the most?

“The loss of my mother truly made me who I am. At that young age I realized that everything in life is temporary. My heart transplant in 2022 taught me that all that matters in life is kindness and I have led with the knowledge since.”

3. If you could share one message with someone going through a tough time, what would it be?

“If I could share one piece of advice with someone struggling, it would be this:
‘I replace “I have to” with “I get to.”’
This simple shift in perspective has been transformative for me. It turns every obligation into an opportunity, every burden into a blessing, reminding us that even the toughest moments hold the seeds of growth and possibility.”

4. What does resilience mean to you?

“Resilience, to me, is the quiet strength that allows us to endure and thrive despite life’s inevitable setbacks. It’s not just about bouncing back—it’s about adapting, learning, and finding beauty in the struggle. Resilience is the gentle, persistent voice that tells us we are capable of overcoming anything, one day at a time.”

5. What brings you joy and keeps you grounded?

“I find joy in playing a card game with my family. Going for a walk every morning. And cooking a meal for people I love. Most recently, creating the magazine Bonus Days has given me so much joy.”

Alison’s words resonate because they’re rooted in lived experience—grief, healing, transformation, and a deep commitment to living fully. Whether she’s telling stories through her lens at AlisonConklin.com, or uplifting others through her publication BonusDaysMag.com, Alison continues to remind us how powerful it is to simply get another day.

You can find her work and follow along here:

• Instagram: @AlisonConklin | @BonusDaysMag

• Website: AlisonConklin.com | BonusDaysMag.com