Jacksonville burn survivor's pregnancy photo goes viral nationwide

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — There’s no denying Andrea Grant is a star. She has a beautiful smile, charm and an inspirational story. Now people across the country are realizing that too.

“I really didn’t think that was the response that was going to happen, but I’m honored,” she said.

Grant is talking about one of her maternity photos taken during a recent shoot with photographer Terrence Armand. In 24 hours, it went viral – getting more than 28,000 likes on Instagram and more than 24,000 likes and 4,500 shares on Facebook.

“It was just like – 1,000, 2,000, 10,000. 100 shares. This celebrity posting it and that celebrity posting it,” Armand explained.

PHOTOS: See more of Andrea Grant's pregnancy photos

Grant’s scars featured in the photo have a story. She was 9. She and her brother were badly burned in a house fire, the result of a gas explosion. Grant recovered, and despite being told she couldn’t carry a baby past four months, she’s 37 weeks and pressing on.

She’s also using her platform wisely. She formed a group called “Beyond Scars” to help other burn victims. The Red Cross is on board and the response is great. The next time someone doubts their worth or ability, Grant wants them to remember these words:

“Once you build up your confidence, no one can take it down.”

Grant’s popularity has truly grown beyond Jacksonville. She’s now up to 43,000 Instagram followers.

If you want to follow her journey, you can do so on her page: @chillonmill. You can also follow Armand at: @terrence_armand.

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