This little guy will stick with me forever. 

I met Ali and his family in February of 2020.  A loved one of theirs contacted me and asked if I would be willing to do a session for them. She explained that Ali has Leukemia and unfortunately, it's a terminal diagnosis.

I obviously said yes, without hesitation. As the day got closer, I kept looking at my kids and thinking, my God. How are these parents dealing with this? How are they still able to even get out of bed, knowing, KNOWING, they ARE going to lose their child. I was scared I was going to cry when they were here. I spoke to the woman who reached out to book the session and she was so sweet. Told me that it's okay to be emotional and that his parents and his sister are so strong and loving and amazing. 

When they got to my house, I put my brave face on. I have to tell you, Ali has the most beautiful, devilish smile I've ever seen. He was shy at first, but made the cuddly photos with his family so much more natural and easy to capture. His big sister, Mack, just loved on him so much. I held it together, mostly, until I did the shots of Ali and his mom. I managed not to let them see it, but man, my heart was hurting so badly. Mom just held her sweet boy, breathed him in, loved on him. And he looked so happy and safe in his mom's arms. He was the same with his dad, but for me, seeing him with his mom....it just hit different. 

His family doesn't know how long they get to have Ali here with them for. He's been defying the odds all year. He's still having fun, making memories, pushing through the days. I've been following their story all year, getting to see all the amazing things he's been doing. If you would like to follow him as well, there is a Facebook page, Ali's Army, where his parents post updates and stories as to what they have been up to!

There is also a GoFundMe. Please consider donating to it, in any amount you are able. 

Ali, you are one of the strongest, most beautiful kids I've ever seen. I'm so glad I got to meet you, if only for a little bit!!

Please click the link below for Ali's GoFundMe page!