Nurse turned photographer giving back to Bleakholt in memory of dog

Camilla Munsadia owns Rochdale-based Gracie and Millie Photography, which is named after her dog Gracie and Millie, who she used to walk and died last year. 

Camilla, who is also a dog walker, previously worked as a nurse for close to 30 years, but she left her medical career several years ago to "save my mental health and wellbeing".

Millie, who was adopted from Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary in Edenfield, was able to make her feel better during her struggles.

Camilla said: “Mille was a Bleakholt baby. She was a founding member of our dog walking business and I did my very first photoshoot with her.

"Very sadly she crossed over the 'rainbow bridge' last year.

"She is always in my heart and is never forgotten.”

Gracie helped Camilla to recover after suffering a breakdown so she is now helping Bleakholt in Millie's memory.

The sanctuary rescues horses, dogs, cats and smaller animals such as rabbits. It also offers horses a place to retire.

Camilla loves being around dogs (Image: Gracie and Millie Photography)

Camilla said: “Although, we humans help to rescue dogs and other animals, I feel that very often they actually rescue or save us.“

Camilla has raised more than £525 through a series of photoshoots for Bleakholt.

For a £20 gift voucher donation, people will be treated to a portrait session by Camilla, which provides 10 eight desktop images and is usually worth £135.

She has been surprised by the amount of interest so far.

Camilla added: ”I've been pretty blown away by how many people responded.

"I've actually donated more than £500 to Bleakholt now from the photoshoots but I'm still working my way through them.”

Camilla is not accepting more people for the photoshoots at the moment due to the number of people who have already taken up the donation offer.

But she does have a Christmas offer available in which proceeds will be donated to Bleakholt as well.

The sanctuary has expressed its thanks to Camilla for her efforts.

A Bleakholt spokesperson said: “We are so grateful to Camilla and the whole team at G&M Photography for raising such vital funds for our animals.

"The feedback from our adopters has been fantastic and this has been such a great idea.”

Bleakholt is also holding a Christmas fair at Ramsbottom Civic Hall on Saturday, November 18 from 10am to 4pm in aid of the charity.

A spokesperson added: “It is really a one stop shop for all your Christmas presents, wrap decorations and even better it is helping to raise much needed funds for the animals in our care.”