Local photographer working to benefit cancer support group
GUYMON - Brenda Eidson, a Main Street Shutterbug photographer, will be selling some of her work to benefit Oklahoma Panhandle Partners, a cancer support group formed to help meet the needs of those suffering with cancer in the Oklahoma Panhandle.
Eidson, who attended all 12 years of school in Guymon, says, “Guymon in my home and always will be.” Her passion for photography began when she went with the Guymon High School band to Atlanta, Ga., and took a camera to catch her memories. She has been hooked ever since.
“The minute I pick up my camera it is like every problem, every worry is gone,” explains Eidson. “The only focus is getting that picture of what I am seeing through the lens. I love taking pictures of abandoned buildings, houses, barns. Old cars or trucks sitting in fields. Old signs. Exploring junk. Sometimes I find a treasure. Something that has rust looks old and interesting.”
She says her training includes a class at Seward Community College in developing
black and white film, but “most of it is what I have learned from other photographers in the Main Street Shutterbug Club.” With the Shutterbugs, she has gotten involved in many area happenings as a photographer.
“I love shooting community events for Main Street Guymon,” she tells. “People are always so pleasant to work with and enjoy having their picture taken. Kids are happy to have their picture taken. But my favorites photos are when someone doesn’t realize the lens is on them.”
“Taking photos for Main Street Guymon is a way I can give back to the community that I have lived in since 1961,” said Eidson. “It’s a joy for me to do it and doubled when it is helpful to the community.”
Lately, Eidson has been working with Tyler and Kalye Griffin to hang some of her work at Top Hand Western Store in Guymon. The country theme of her photos fits the western store and what they sell.
“I want people to be able to see the beauty we have around us,” shares the photographer. The Griffins are happy to have a local artist’s work for sale in the store. They are planning to have four canvas photos exhibited and will change them out each month.
Half of the proceeds of all sales at Top Hand are to be donated to Panhandle Partners.
There is a soft spot in Eidson’s heart for those with cancer and their families. Both her mother and father-in-law lost the fight to cancer; her son was diagnosed with cancer at age 19 and survived his struggle; her sister-in-law put up a four-year skirmish against her cancer before succumbing to it; her mother died of cancer; and her sister was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and just recently received word she is cancer-free.
“Helping someone with cancer is just something everyone should do,” says Eidson. “It should be automatic, with no questions asked, if you are able. When a person receives word their family has the big C, it feels like you’ve been punched in the stomach. It is nice to know people care during this time.” Panhandle Partners shows those in this battle that someone cares.
Top Hand Western Store is holding a reception to welcome Eidson and her work on Nov. 14 from 4-6 p.m.. They encourage all to come in and say hi to Brenda.