Last Updated on October 18, 2024
Doreen Ratigan, 70, has been chosen as the winner of The New 65+ Selfie Photography Contest, presented by Humana and Growing Bolder.
The winning photo, chosen by third-party judge and professional portrait photographer Mike Dunn, showcases Ratigan’s enthusiasm for life, as she smiles with a craft butterfly on her nose.
“I love this picture,” Ratigan told Growing Bolder and Humana. “It says, ‘There’s always a little girl inside of me that loves nature and loves to play, and you can still have fun no matter what age you are, even if you’re just playing with a butterfly.’”
“Doreen captures fun and exuberance in a single frame, exemplifying what makes a great selfie,” says judge Mike Dunn. “There is so much personality, joy and silliness in this photo that I feel like I know this person. This photo captured a moment worth sharing with everyone. The expression and enthusiasm for life in Doreen’s photo is a great representation of The New 65+ philosophy that life is worth celebrating.”
The New 65+ Selfie Photography Contest, presented by Humana and Growing Bolder, is a stereotype-smashing initiative that celebrates the opportunities, achievements and aspirations of older adults – men and women who, no matter their age, abilities or challenges, have found their own way to experience joy and pursue their passions.
The contest encouraged adults 65 and older around the country to submit selfies doing the things they loved most, to showcase a theme of how it is passion that powers people to live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
“You had me at ‘selfie’ because I love to take selfies. I love to dress up. I love to take pictures of myself, other people, and different scenarios,” Ratigan shared. “It’s fun to share them and to show just the joy of life.
“I got an email saying, you won. And I went, ‘I won? Wait a minute, me and 25 other people,’ I’m thinking. I looked a little further and I went, ‘Oh my gosh. They noticed me!’ I was honored by that and excited to share my story. If I can do this, anybody can do it with the right attitude.”
Ratigan is a marquee example of how to embrace active aging. At 70 years old, she lives an active life full of joy and enthusiasm. This Floridian is passionate about travel, hiking, swimming, water sports, singing, cycling and her community.
“I like to take care of myself. Being physically fit is important for doing adventurous things.” Ratigan says. “Because I’m getting older and still doing these things, shows that other people can do them as well. If I can do it, you can do it, if you do the work.”
The winning selfie will be featured across the Growing Bolder and Humana social media platforms, displayed on the cover of Growing Bolder’s digital magazine, and featured in a portrait display at The Grand Ole Opry’s 99th birthday celebration and Community Day in Nashville, Tenn. on October 12 and 13. Ratigan hopes to inspire others to capture their own enthusiasm for life.
“If I can help somebody be a better version of themselves, then I’m their biggest cheerleader,” Ratigan says. “What a gift we have to be on earth. Every day I’m grateful to be a part of this world.”
To read more stories of The New 65+, and to submit your own photo and story, visit GrowingBolder.com/New65Plus .
