Keepin' Young: Katelyn

I'm forgoing my normal my blog style because there is just too much to say.

First of all, in the short time I've been doing photography, I have been amazed by the power of relationships, the various stages of life, and the beauty on the other side of the lens. The simple exchange of love between a newly married couple, or the pucker of a brand new baby, or the playful resistance between a brother and sister, it goes without saying how wonderful being a part of those moments truly is. With that said, yesterday I was afforded an opportunity to capture life in it's most crucial, resilient phase. I may never have a session that centers around the importance of the moment as much as Katelyn's did.

Let me formally introduce you to my new hero. Katelyn is 13, and will be in the eighth grade. She likes boys, and xbox. She's a normal teenager, with normal hopes, normal dreams. It's hard to look at a child and think of them as strong, and brave but that is exactly what I see - a fighter.

Katelyn's life changed a few months ago when she was diagnosed with a form of bone cancer called Osteosarcoma. It was only by incident that the cancer, known as the silent killer, was detected ( a miracle actually.) As a mother, I can only imagine how heartbreaking that news must be. The past few months have been the hardest of both Erica and Katelyn's life but neither of them seem to have a broken spirit. The doctor's appointments, chemo, and constant medical treatment have been overwhelming for them to say the least but each day brings about a new blessing for them, and I truly feel that is why they keep going on. They are embarking on this journey and taking each day as both a blessing and an opportunity. Erica told me that prayers were answered daily, and she could see God's work unveiling little by little. Mercy in motion. That's incredibly powerful.

Katelyn's mom wanted this session to be about the adversity they are facing and that they are sure to overcome. In a few year's when they've beat this, they can reflect on this road with gratitude, and peace, and always remember how precious, and beautiful life truly is. Most people don't really forget things such as fighting cancer, but just like weddings, and all the other milestones of life, sometimes we need a visual reminder to allow us the opportunity to relive that one moment. These images represent so much: life, love, mercy, strength, grace, courage, and beauty.

Katelyn is an incredibly beautiful young lady, even on her worst days, she is vibrant like a new rose with gorgeous, captivating eyes, and a beautiful lively smile. I fell in love with her, and I hope she knows how much she has changed my life. I ask each of my readers to keep her, and her family in your prayers as she continues on this journey. She has more chemo, and a 10 hour surgery to face in the next little bit and you support and prayers would make a huge difference.

Also, Medic will he conducting a blood drive for Katelyn at Lowe's in Lafollette on July 29th and 30th. Your donations will be very much appreciated.