Friday, October 18, 2013

The Love and Strength of a Woman

Like the previous family I shared, I have been photographing this next family for a number of years.  When I first started working with them, I got to know their mother a little better than most because she was so enthusiastic about her love of images and the love of her family.  She always had adorable outfits for her girls and worked hard to make them feel special.  I learned of the close bond she shared with her mother who courageously battled cancer for many years.  One of our sittings together coincided with her mother's visit to El Paso and I was able to capture her with her granddaughters.  And then, in 2009, she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia .  Her prognosis was grim, but she defied the odds.  Even while undergoing 8 rounds of spinal tap chemo, she made sure she captured the beauty of her daughters.  

After two years and 23 hospital stays of treatments, she beat the odds and has been cancer free for the past two years.  Soon after completing her treatment, Amanda was notified that her mother's cancer had metastasized.  Amanda became her number one supporter.  Their mother/daughter bond is like no other. This year, her mother sadly passed away. Throughout her emotional and physical journey Amanda inner light never dimmed.  Regardless of her circumstances the light always shined through.
This weekend, Amanda will run her 2nd half marathon.  Just three years after completing her treatment.  She is now using her experience to touch others, running with Team in Training, fundraising for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  Amanda inspires me, not because of the disease she has overcome, but because of the woman she is...a thoughtful, loving warrior.  So today, I am starting with a few of her.  I hope she sees the beauty, strength and love she gifts to those around her reflecting back at her!!  It is no wonder that her girls are so great!!

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