Ever feel like someone comes into your life for a reason? That’s how I feel about this little gal Holly. From the moment I “met” her over the spring and summer as we chatted over email about shooting her Senior photos, we got along like old pals. Even though we may be years apart in age, we shared so many of the same interests. Over time, our conversations went much deeper, and a saw a sweet girl, who instead of doing what most girls do the summer before their Senior year like planning for college, going shopping, or hanging out with friends, she was home caring for her mother as she went through rounds of chemotherapy.
I remember when I met Holly’s Mother Peri back in July. She was weak, but stood strong and proud watching her only child have her Senior photos taken. Peri had found a lump in one of her breasts 10 years ago, had it removed, completed radiation and moved on. One day last May she leaned over towards Holly in the car, and felt a lump. She went to the doctor, and they did a mammogram, and a CAT scan, and saw nothing. Peri insisted that something was going on, and after a biopsy the Dr. said that yes indeed their was cancer, although they were not sure exactly where. Peri decided on a double mastectomy, and after the surgery they found that it had indeed spread to both breasts, and was caught right before moving into her lymph nodes. She handled the surgery bravely, encouraging Holly all the way. Holly wrote a beautiful essay for school that she shared with me, and gave me permission to share whatever I wanted with you all. One of the things that stuck out to me and can tell you a little about Perri’s personality would be the T-shirt she wore the day of her surgery…it read, “Cancer can take my ta-ta’s, but it can’t take my sexy.” I just loved that. 
Their story also hit a special chord in my heart because I barely remember my biological mother who died of cancer when I was two years old. To see the love these two have and the trial they have braved together, has touched my heart in a way I can’t explain.
Peri has finished her months of chemo now, and is on her way to a beautiful recovery. Hair is beginning to regrow, and with that comes the excitement of what lies ahead. It has been a long journey for their family, but the time and tears they have shared have only brought them closer. When Holly had the idea to do a shoot a few months back for just the two of them, I thought it was an incredibly beautiful idea. Indeed, it was such a special session for me…of love, of laughter and true celebration.
We spent most of our session in a cute little tea room in O’Bryonville, The BonBonerie, where Holly and Peri enjoyed tea and lunch together.
This is one of my favorite shots Brett got shooting into the mirror menu on the wall.
Then we had some relaxed portrait time. These two are adorable.
Peri, you are so beautiful!
Even though it was COOLLDD and raining, we ventured out for a little walk.
And ducked under a few doorways from the rain….
Well at least they did! Doesn’t Brett look great with his polka dot umbrella??
Holly adores her Mama so much. They are so sweet together.
Holly I am so happy to have shared these moments with you and your beautiful Mom. Peri, I am so happy to have met you and been able to hear your story. May God give you many, many, many more years together and may your story touch many more lives! Thank you for letting us be a part.
With love,
Jess and Brett
Great job!!
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