This weekend has been one of reflections about the choices we make and events in life that make us question everything. On Friday Greg and I were asked to photograph a Relay for Life Event in Petersburg, VA. A lot of people asked me why I would waste my gas on a volunteer event and I won't even be able to use it for my website. The answer is simple. I do it not only to make each survivor feel special but to help me remember how lucky I am.We were set up to photograph at the entrance by the survivors table where they would register and receive a purple shirt (the one above). Halfway through a girl around 10 years old came running up to the table smiling. To be honest I was expecting her to be accompanying a parent or loved one who battled cancer, instead she gave her name. Her father proudly told Greg how she had been battling cancer and a lung transplant since she was diagnosed at 10 months. The way he spoke about her and how she still keeps fighting could've brought tears to anyone's eyes. Despite all of this she was all smiles and ready to walk with her family by her side.It's moments like that where you realize life can always be harder and can end sooner then you hope.
To some extent we are all survivors. Whether its a physical condition or emotional, you can't do it alone. Petersburg's Relay raised about $86,000 and had hundreds of survivors, family, friends and community members show up to prove that there really is no such thing as too many birthdays.
Happy Sunday <3
Man. Reading this as brought tears to my eyes. I can only imagine what it was like to see the little girl and her father eyed, wide-eyed bushy tailed, so excited to see yet another day, and that day being an opportunity to celebrate all that she has overcome. I think you did a great thing for life isn't all about money. You have to take the time to do things that are rewarding to you internally as well for these are the things that we will be most noted for and be glad that we did when we look back on our lives. Moreover, God gave you the talent and you are using it in all ways, monetary benefit or not, and because of that He will bless you in so many ways. My love to you and Greg.
ReplyDeleteI admire you for making that trip and taking footage. People don't understand what it is to go through something like that until they talk to someone who's life has been affected by cancer. You are such a wonderful person and the fact that you took time to support this cause means a lot to me. You were there to support people like my grandmother and my father. <3 Many photographers wouldn't make that trip for the same reason you did, so be proud of what you did!
ReplyDeleteThanks Olivia for your comment! I'm sending my thought to you and your family.
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