Last week I got a call from a mom who was looking to get family portraits taken as well as her daughter Ella's portrait.  She was very concerned on how soon I could fit them in my schedule being that her daughter Ella who is 4 years old was just diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and she didn't know how much longer until her hair would slowly thin and fall out. After hearing the tremble in her voice I was lost for words but knew that I needed to fit them in my schedule as soon as possible.

A few days later after sanitizing door knobs and any props we may use for her, they came over and we were able to get some great family portraits and of course of just Ella. During their session, I wanted to keep Ella's condition quiet and just focus on her like any other session. I wanted her to feel extra special for one day without any worries. While photographing her, I learned that she has the sweetest smile, the prettiest eyes and she is full of strength and braveness. I have to admit she made me smile the whole time. One line that made me smile was when after about 10 minutes of her session she said, "Can we go to Culver's now?" I guess she was hungry and I know how I get when I am hungry too.

This session has touched my heart in so many ways. I could not imagine going through anything like this. I don't have children of my own but the thought of a small children being so brave to fight for her life brings sadness to my heart. I ask everyone to please pray for Ella as she and her family go through this horrible time in their life. I know I added them to my prayer list. With this being said, Ella's mom encourages everyone why it is so important to get professional portraits taken on a regular basis. Please don't hesitate to call me or another photographer in the area to capture at least 1 great family portrait to hang on your wall. These portraits will last a lifetime and I promise you, you wont regret it.

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