giving back

When I initially heard about the Gold Hope Project a few years ago and loved the idea of photographing these special families. I felt drawn to the mission of gifting sessions to cancer warriors and their families. I  immediately applied to become a photographer for the organization. The Gold Hope Project has very high standards (rightly so) for the photographers and I was not accepted then.

Earlier in this year though, I applied again and was thrilled to be accepted as an official Gold Hope Photographer.
Shortly after, I was contacted by the organization to fill the need to photograph a fighter session. Getting this call resulted in a mix of emotions. I am happy to use my talents for an important cause, but it also meant that a family is struggling with a horrific situation.

I had the privilege to  learn a bit about JJ and his wonderful family when we spent time together that brisk October day.  JJ is just 4 years old and is currently fighting acute lymphoblastic leukemia. But there is so much more to this special boy that this disease he is fighting. Like most four year olds, JJ loved running around, being silly, chatting about sports and legos. It is hard to imagine what this family has gone through, but sharing time with them briefly showed me their enormous amount of strength and love for each other. It was truly and honor.