Hartlepool woman Amanda Durán, 40, has defied two major illnesses to proudly unveil her company called Durán Photography.
It is based in Hartlepool's Indoor Market and is flourishing thanks to the determination of a woman who refuses to give in to her ailments.
For more than 10 years, she has suffered from fibromyalgia which is a musculoskeletal condition which causes pain and fatigue. But she has also been diagnosed with a separate condition called vertebro-basillar which is effectively a migraine with complications.
"It is like having a permanent hangover," said Amanda who added: "I get the upset stomach, the sickness and the tiredness that goes with it."
For years, her conditions went undiagnosed until doctors finally found out what was wrong.
The mother-of-two to Mark James, 22, and Steven, 18, told Business Mail: "It has got worse over the years but I am not prepared to sit at home any more. I need to do something."
Business is flourishing for the business which is run by owner Amanda with the backing of husband Charlie, 48.
"Photography has been my lifeline and Charlie has been a constant support. He has been superb," said Amanda who says business is "brilliant."
She started up as a company owner after getting the support and guidance of Brenda Parkinson, from the DWP, and Andrea Miles, from the Hartlepool Enterprise Centre.
"Brenda has been behind me all the way and Andrea has been an absolute constant support," said Amanda.
Her conditions mean Amanda can be in pain and constantly tired – yet she battles on.
Husband Charlie said: "I think it is superb. We are living the dream. Photography is a joy for both of us and it has given us the opportunity to do this."