Some people enter your life for a season, and others stay for a lifetime. Tasha has been my best friend since childhood, and over the years we have become more like family. Our kids have grown up together and we love her family fiercely. Both of our kids love spending time with her family, lovingly nicknamed the F5. We all have such a special relationship with all of their girls.
Soraya, Tasha’s middle daughter, was born with a rare genetic disorder. Because little is known about the disorder, every day looks a little different, and Soraya is currently in hospice.
Since Soraya is homebound and her energy is limited, we try to maximize our time with her. When she’s awake, has the energy, and is up for company, we slow down and fill time with simple joys. We play games, watch shows, and just chat. Even short visits can be exhausting for her, so we try to soak up every second.
I brought my camera with me on our last trip, hoping to capture a few of those everyday moments when Soraya felt up for it. Nothing too posed or planned, just real, tender interactions that tell their story.
As a photographer, I know how quickly seasons of life can fly by. Being able to preserve these little moments in time is one of my favorite parts of my job. Especially when it includes some of my favorite people! We’ll hold on to these memories forever.
Tasha has been documenting their family’s story on Instagram, raising awareness for medically complex children. She shares both the beauty and the heartbreak of anticipatory grief, loving fiercely, and choosing joy in the most difficult seasons. Their family motto says it best: Suck the Joy out of Life. Please join me in supporting their family by following their Instagram.
