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Athena | Sharon Mills Park part 2

I have a soft spot in my heart for those who are required to travel down paths in life that make the rest of us weep with frustration and anger, while at the same time turning our faces up to God in prayer.    One of the ways I’ve been able to bring a small token of comfort to those struggling with loss or other unthinkable situations has been with my camera – helping preserve memories of strength and courage, documenting smiles and tender moments, hoping to offer something tangible and lasting to those in need.

Enter Athena, a single-mother to a lovely 16-year old daughter.  Athena was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer.   Her close friend Erica (also my daughters’ Aunt) contacted me about photographing Athena & her family.  We quickly worked out a viable shoot date, since both of us felt an urgent need to photograph Athena before the ravaging effect of chemo took its toll.  I first met her on June 11th, a week or so after she began chemo.    The day of the shoot, it was hit-or-miss if she was going to be comfortable enough to make it the hour drive to our location, but sheer determination must have kicked in and I’m so grateful it did.  When she strode across the parking lot to shake my hand, I thought, ‘OMG, she’s gorgeous, she’s beaming!’    An observer would not know her struggles.  Brave.

To those of you who are fighting life’s hardships, keep up the good fight.  Stay strong.  Be courageous.  Pray a ton.  And listen to the loving & encouraging words of those around you and believe them with all your might.

To Athena and family… Thank you.  It was my honor.   I hope you enjoy your preview – your images will be posted to your gallery shortly!

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  • Laura - June 28, 2010 - 12:05 am

    Jennifer – this is a beautiful set of images. The family photo is fantastic, and the image of Athena and her daughter, lying with head in her mother’s lap, is AMAZING. What a lovely way to mark this moment of their journey. You have a gift, and I love that you share it, and your vision, with others. Fantastic.ReplyCancel

  • Mike Hieronymus - July 15, 2010 - 5:47 am

    Extremely interesting post thank you for sharing I just added your web site to my bookmarks and will be back now and then. By the way this is off topic but I really like your blogs layout.ReplyCancel

  • […] contacted me shortly after I shot Athena’s session.   She LOVED how Athena’s pictures turned out and absolutely had to have the same […]ReplyCancel

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