Sanibel Woman Captures Hurricane Ian's Aftermath in Poignant Photo Book

Bridgit Budd, a resident of Sanibel Island, has released a powerful 80-page coffee table book titled "Sanibel After Ian - Through my Lens," documenting the devastating aftermath and inspiring recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian. The book is a moving collection of Budd's photographs, taken during her daily life updates on TikTok, that showcase the destruction wrought by the storm and the resilience of the island community.

The Sanibel Fire Commissioner and owner of the Sanibel Cafe described the emotional impact of Budd's photographs, saying, "Filled me with emotion, my body with goose bumps and my eyes with tears all from the devastation and recovery. Her photos brought me both pain and joy." The book serves as a more permanent record of the storm's aftermath and the community's determination to rebuild in the face of unimaginable challenges.

Budd, who rode out Hurricane Ian in her family treehouse with her husband, mom, and dogs, played an active role in the community's recovery efforts in the aftermath of the storm. She helped organize demolition crews, checked on friends' homes, and attempted to salvage her beloved restaurant, The Pecking Order.

To celebrate the release of "Sanibel After Ian - Through my Lens," a book signing event will be held on May 10 at Suncatcher's Dream, a Sanibel gift shop located at 630 Tarpon Bay Road, Suite 2. The event, which begins at 11 a.m., coincides with the grand re-opening of Suncatcher's Dream post-Hurricane Ian and the launch of Budd's skin care line.

For those unable to attend the book signing event, "Sanibel After Ian - Through my Lens" is available for purchase online at BridgitsWildlife.com for $65 plus shipping. The book not only serves as a powerful tribute to the challenges faced by the Sanibel Island community but also as a means to support the ongoing recovery efforts. Proceeds from the book will contribute to the island's rebuilding process, ensuring that the story of Hurricane Ian and its aftermath will not be forgotten.

As Sanibel Island continues to rebuild, Bridgit Budd's book provides a powerful visual narrative of the community's path to recovery. In early June, construction on Budd's new restaurant location is scheduled to begin, marking another major milestone in the island's revitalization.

"Sanibel After Ian - Through my Lens" is a tribute to the resilience and spirit of a community that has faced unimaginable challenges. Through her lens, Bridgit Budd has captured the essence of Sanibel Island's path to recovery, ensuring that the story of Hurricane Ian and its aftermath will be preserved for generations to come.

Key Takeaways

• Bridgit Budd releases 80-page photo book "Sanibel After Ian - Through my Lens" documenting Hurricane Ian's aftermath.
• The book showcases destruction and resilience of Sanibel Island community through Budd's photographs.
• Budd played an active role in the community's recovery efforts after the storm.
• A book signing event will be held on May 10 at Suncatcher's Dream gift shop on Sanibel Island.
• Proceeds from the book will contribute to the island's rebuilding process.