Years ago, I had someone (Pammi) booked a session (see it here) for a friend who had just been diagnosed with cancer. At that the time, I had never done something like this before so I was a little nervous going in because I felt like I needed to make it perfect because this was right at the beginning of her j0urney and I wanted her to have portraits as everyone knew her. Thick dark hair, glowing skin, and a million-watt smile. I enjoyed the time so much and I felt like I came out with new friends after an hour-long session. Fast forward a few years later and I got a terrible phone call that Pammi’s husband…a young guy, had suddenly passed away. I rushed to get the images printed for the funeral and I remember thinking how we had done this for Amanda who at the time was doing better and it ended up also being a blessing for Pammi and her sweet family.
Fast forward and Amanda was doing better and then things got worse and cancer came back. We decided to do a portrait session all about Amanda and the fight of her life. We really bonded and clicked and laughed during this time and I got to know her even better. Sweet, spunky, fun, and willing to try anything – such a bright light. I loved the images and I made a blog post about them (see them here). Since that time Amanda’s health had progressed and she had her hair back and she was doing better. I have been blessed to photograph both of her grandkids…one just a few weeks ago. They are darling children and I know that Amanda loved them so. Have I mentioned that the kids from Pammi and Amanda’s family ended up getting married and I remember thinking what a blessing it would be to already love your new in-laws 🙂
I found out yesterday that Amanda had passed away the day before. My heart broke for those families and also for me. I will miss Amanda and I am so thankful for the time I got to spend with her and the lessons I learned from her. We ran into each other not long ago and so I knew her health was not the best but man she had a great attitude anyway. I want to be more like her in the bad times. I will miss her smiling face and that shining personality. My prayers go out to her sweet family and all her friends. She was amazing.
