This past year has brought my own family many personal challenges.  And at a moment when we were heavily focused on our own struggles, a very profound opportunity came our way and some valuable lessons came to light.  My husband Jason was invited to run the Boston Marathon for the Family Reach Foundation.  Jason ran for Ottavio, a six year old boy fighting brain cancer.  From the moment we were introduced to Ottavio our lives were changed.  As I looked into his eyes my heart sank because he was no different than my own six year old boy.  Ottavio was a lego loving, superhero show watching little boy just as eager for fun as my own son, Jack.  It seemed so unfair and I realized in this single moment that these kiddos with cancer are all our kids…they are not other peoples kids, and cancer is not something that can only happen to other peoples kids.  My focused shifted, to giving.  It is all of our jobs to help, give, donate, campaign, everything we can in support of those fighting.

The Family Reach Foundation provides a lifeline for families with children fighting cancer by offering financial assistance and resources.  In addition to my husband’s fundraising, I had the opportunity to photograph Ottavio’s family as they welcomed Baby Benicio into the world.  I am so grateful to have been able to capture these moment and be inspired by the strength of Ottavio and his family.

Last spring I ran Faces Sessions to benefit this foundation that we have grown to love so much! Check back for more details on future charitable sessions…these are priceless!

These children are fighters but they are also kids filled with giggles and joy like all children.  This photo session is one to remember with stunning smiles and pure laughs I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!