i just met this family but they have already touched me tremendously. they have an incredible story – and one that mom has given her blessing for me to share here on this blog.
this family has never had family photos taken. both her 13-year-old son and 6-year-old little boy have been diagnosed with autism, and extra money often goes to therapies. plus, they never really thought the photos would turn out well or that they’d find a photographer who would be willing to work with their boys. i can’t tell you how many times i hear this – there are so many special needs children out there – and these are exactly the kinds of kiddos and families i want as clients. i can’t work miracles but i can promise you i have the heart and patience and there’s nothing more i’d rather do with the time i pour into my business than to give a family something they never thought they’d get and the memories that will last a lifetime.
we have had our share of challenges with our own mr. d, and so i know what it means to have that one image that you can treasure and lovingly stare at during the low times to keep you focused and centered on what you are fighting for and why you do what you do.
i was so amazed and inspired by the time i spent with this family. they are all lights in the darkness! mom and dad are beyond patient, and they are such a team and they are so in love:) they are fully committed to their boys and go to the ends of the earth to get them all the help they need. now, if i could just find them a good babysitter since they don’t have any family nearby and since it is hard to find someone to care for the boys when they are not with them…
it’s all a matter of perspective. read for yourself this bit from mom – again, so inspiring and what a heart she has.. i really don’t think I’m any different than any other mom. I have challenges but we all do in some shape or form. I have been so blessed God has always given me the tools to deal with the challenges I’m faced with. Last week was definitely one of my most challenging weeks but here I am maybe a little bent but still standing and fighting for my boys! All I hope is that when the day comes for me to make my exit from this life I have served them well and done everything in my power to make them as independent as possible.
so this is why i choose to share their story – because it is possible to have photos you always dream of…and because it’s important to shed some “light” to issues like autism and all special needs kiddos for that matter. you never know what is going on behind a child’s smile or what kind of load a mom is carrying inside her heart. it is important to believe in these children and go the extra mile for them and their families.
Katie - I’m so glad that I got to help with this shoot. It was a honor to meet such an extraordinary family.
Mandy - These are beautiful, beautiful pictures.
Winnie - Such a beautiful family, and their story of love touched my heart.
Sole - I could not stop crying when I first saw the beautiful images of my boys. Once my tears of joy subsided, I could not stop smiling! You truly are Amazing! Thank you! Thank you! for being so sweet and patient with my boys! Thank you for working so hard and going the extra mile to get me what I have only dreamed of
You said to me you would make it your mission to be the one thing that went right for me that week and you did it! Mission accomplished! You have given me such a beautiful gift which will stay with us forever.
My heart is happy! Thank you so very much!
P.S. A special thanks to Katie for working so hard to get that smile. my husband and i are still doing the shake your groove thing dance!
michelle - Oh this post and these pics bring tears to my eyes. Love, love it all! What a blessing you gave this sweet family. I can’t wait to read more posts like this one in the future….I know you will be photographing more families like them! You have a gift!
gigi - Wonderful photos of this amazing family. Thanks for sharing this touching story of love. As I wipe away my tears I’m reminded what a shinning light you are. Love ya
Brandi Redmond - Beautiful and such an amazing family that always gives. I’m balling looking at these gorgeous photos. Melissa, you did it again capturing love and perfection.
Julie - Such beautiful images and an incredibly touching story….together they brought tears to my eyes!