Over the last four years in business I've attended workshops, conferences and retreats. Some have 'styled shoots' usually with models who donate their time and have a swarm of photographers tell them what to do. I've been lucky enough to meet some great people this way.
A couple years ago I met Katey. She came to Cape May and modeled for a small group of us. She talked a little about her husband, dogs and her interest in photography as a hobby. Thanks to Facebook we stayed connected long after the shoot was over. I've since followed along with her life; pregnancies, loss, heartbreak, loss of one of her dogs. Finally a pregnancy that was so hopeful. She shared it was a girl (and I was so excited). She bought her little girl cute Irish clothes (and I got MORE excited). Until at 29 weeks, on Mother's day, May 11, 2014, Katey had to give birth to her little girl due to complications. Brielle weighed 1 pound, 13.5 ounces. I've had friends and family go through losses at various stages in pregnancy and after giving birth. It's scary and heartbreaking. So I did the only thing I could. I prayed. A lot. I followed along with the updates and prayed more. As Brielle became more stable, I wanted to do more. I wanted to come to the hospital and take photos for Katey and Steve. We tried a few times to set something up, but different problems and some setbacks kept that from happening. And then their prayers (and mine and everyone else's) were answered. Brielle came home. After almost 3 months in the NICU, she was home.
I am so happy to share these photos of Brielle, the littlest yet biggest fighter. She's got her mom's strength, no doubt about that. She is sweet and spunky and has a great smile! Brielle is now 6 months old and doing well, making progress every day. Thank you Katey and Steve, for having me in your home and letting me share your story and your beautiful family.
