This is my mom. She’s been battling stage three breast cancer for the better part of three years now. I’ve been meaning to take her portrait since the FIRST time she lost her hair (this is #3 bald), but it was always a challenge- she was too sick, or I was traveling. But honestly, this was the perfect moment intended for this to take place. We kinda decided last minute, but I planned for a black background and had a whole setup. Drama! When we went to shoot, the board I had set up as only a reflector had this magic light on it from trees and windows- like fire. We took a few shots fully clothed and she decided to reveal the area of her chest where her breast no longer was. Her burns were shocking. I gasped, and she said, “they were worse. The nurse said they’re much better.” The strength required to overcome this disease, this length of treatment, this serious of side effects is overwhelming. Were both glad we documented this time in her life, but we hope we never return here