Life Changing.
January 22, 2010Was this last week. Crushing. Not sure I have the energy to tell the story quite yet, but in short, our little Sofia was diagnosed with Epilepsy. A rare form with uncertainties. However, we are certain that she will flourish and grow and be brave and come out on top of the world.
Things have changed for us, one being what we’ve learned about life, and love, and the little things. For that, we are so grateful.
Being such private people, we were a little shy reaching out for support. However, we wanted to fill in everyone we knew, just in case they knew something that we didn’t. Or for the plain fact of rallying up as many prayers as we possibly could. Let me tell you, we would (she would) be so much farther behind than where we are right now if it weren’t for the advice, referrals, recommendations, prayers and help that we’ve received. I always see photographers share their stories on their blogs and it often shocks me that I have a blog, because of the exposure into my “private life”. However, the people that come back, come back because they care. Be it a boring rambling or a serious matter, I have first handedly seen the support in this community change lives, so with that, I encourage everyone to reach out when they need to.
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With the clothes on our backs and a couple phones in our pockets, we waited and worried and cried and sobbed and yelled, watching, as she bravely conquered hell.
We forgot we had older girls, or family, or a house or a car. We were numb to everything, but her. I don’t remember alot of moments where we felt at peace or happy, so when we got home I fell apart at the images that we took with our phones. It came back to me, that throughout the five days, there were a few milliseconds that we experienced a glimpse of comfort and peace, enough to pull out a phone and capture it.
My husband took most, and as far as I’m concerned he has achieved more than I have in my career so far. I realized that you don’t need an expensive camera, the perfect light, or a fumble with setting to get the exact look you want. You don’t need these things, to capture true love.
That said, I’ll always thrive to capture love and create great images. I love my camera, I love it’s settings, and I love perfect light.
But I love these more.
Kim: Oh Michelle....there are simply no words. My wish for you and your beautiful family is that you could turn back time to when everything was just as it was..... we all know this isn't possible. Know that your precious little Sofia will be in our hearts and prayers as is your family. Hugs, Kim
Linda: Michelle, my heart is so heavy right now :( I am so sorry to hear what you and your family have been going through. Sofia is one little beauty....strong and oh so lovable! I hope and pray for her, and I just KNOW that she will be brave AND come out on top of the world. Lots of love from the Letchfords. xoxo
Natasha Ferris: Looking at these photos, you question why is that beautiful being of pure perfection in the hospital? There must be some mistake, she is the picture of perfect health. How lucky is she to have such loving parents, soothing her, singing to her and trying to keep some norm to the absurd happenings around her. We are praying for her to heal soon, and praying that these images will only reflect something that was at the time horrific and at moments unbearable, but together you rose above it. We love you all, you are in our thoughts and prayers, every second and moment of the day. xxoo's
Jordan: Michelle, I don't even know what to say ............ But based on these pictures of Sofia and the others I have seen, I DO KNOW that she is one spunky, tough and resilient little girl who will adapt and continue to shine. Please know that you, Darren and your girls are in our thoughts and prayers. Let us know if there is ANYTHING we can do for you guys. Love the Daoust family. xoxoxo
admin: These pictures won't remind us of the tubes and wires and needles and tests, because who would take pictures of that? Those memories can be forgotten. These will remind us of what true love looks like, and we'll cherish them forever. Thank you for the prayers and kind words. {lovelovelove} Michelle
Niki V: The prayers are flowing up to the skies for Miss Sofia from my family. I take time to hug and kiss my kids way more often this week...knowing we can never take life for granted. Stay strong Miss Sofia as you are surrounded by an amazing family and plenty of prayers.
Jody Lee Dick: :') :') The pictures say a million words !!!!! oxoxox
Dana: hello my sweet little family I've never met, but have planned to for a year ;) Soon...I promise. These images are just so awesome. You are in my thoughts. Hugs to you all. Can't wait to capture your love...
Jacqui Engel: Michelle, you have captured love. My heart breaks for all you and your beautiful family are going through. Wishing you great strength... and love.
evieegee: Oh Michelle, I just got back from Mexico to hear the news that Miss Sofia has been ill. I can't tell you how upset I was to hear it and I want you to know that my prayers are with you now and always. You have truly been through the worst thing a parent can go through and it sounds like your partner is a champion just like you are. I will continue to read and wait for good news. Your pictures are truly awe inspiring as are your words Michelle. thinking of you. evieegee
jodi woodland: Now I remember why I try not to look at your blog every day... because you always have a way with not only your beautiful pictures but also with your beautiful words that ALWAYS bring tears to my eyes. Sofia ("Tuffs girl") is in our thoughts and prayers every day. I know she is going to amaze every doctor out there with her amazing spirit and strength. xoxoxo
fiona andersen: oh my lord... this just shows me how tied up in my own world I am. Firstly congratulations on your beautiful girl and secondly congratulations on being the most spectacular mother there is!!! I am sending bunches and bunches of prayers for Sofia. I am also astounded as to how far you have come on your photography journey. You are a force to be reckoned with and I look forward to seeing you grow!!! xxx
Shael: I'm all choked up... truly. Sweet, sweet angel.