I met Shannon last Christmas while teaching a photography class for Kids Path. I love the community of caring that this program creates for families strugging with health issues and grieving for those they have lost due to illness. I also know two of the extraordinary women who work there ( Hi Katie & Jane!) so when they contacted me about their need for a photography teacher, I was thrilled to donate my time. The purpose of the class was to give the children in the program a “voice” behind the lens..to allow them to share their happiness or grief through their images. At the end of the 3 week class, we had an “art show” here in my kids studio and each child showcased their favorite image. It was such an inspiring 3 weeks…watching these kids get excited about photography and really connecting with them through their images was an amazing experience.

Shannon’s print was one of my favorites in the group. It was a close-up shot of her parents laughing with GIGANTIC clown glasses on. When I asked her about what that image meant to her, she said “happiness.” She told me how her parents have kept her in good spirits since her stroke, and it was so obvious how very much she loves them. So when her mom, Judy, called to tell me about her upcoming surgery & the fact that she would be wearing a turban for her graduation ceremony from Montessori school, I told her to bring her right in and we would do a special photo session before the surgery. Shannon had already picked out her super cute dress, and her first pair of wedges to wear for her graduation, and man did she look fabulous! I can’t really put into words how insipring she is…I haven’t seen her without this amazing smile on her face, and I hope these images give you a sense of what a beautiful soul she truly is. She has big plans to study to be a Rheumatologist & I know she has a tremendously bright future ahead!

We wish you a speedy recovery, Shannon. Hugs to you…