One of my most rewarding projects ever has been to photograph 22 of the 25 children who are Childrens Cancer Association’s 2012 Community Heroes, an exceptional group of children and teens who represent the thousands who battle life-threatening illnesses with strength and grace. The Heroes reside in Oregon and SW Washington, and were nominated by local hospital staff and families.  A selection committee chose the final 25 heroes, and the process led to the unveiling of a “Wall of Courage” which will travel around Oregon to inspire others to get involved and help bring “JoyRx” to local kiddos and their families.  

The 2012 Wall of Courage was unveiled May 23rd at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland.  Family, friends, and community leaders were in attendance for the celebration, and it was so great to see most of the children again, some of them with new crops of hair! 

I entered this project with some trepidation, knowing I had to capture the essence of these brave souls in the short time we could spend in the studio.   I was blown away at the maturity, wisdom and serenity of these kids.   They are very much aware of their challenges; people who say they are too young to grasp what’s going on are badly mistaken.  They were like little Buddhas, and have so much personality. Meeting them has changed my perspectives about my own life.  I am so thankful for what I’ve seen and learned in this process.

See the full set of heroes here.  A schedule for the travelling display in 2012 will be published as the information becomes available.

Special thanks to Joni Kabana, who generously offered the use of her studio facilities, and to Portland’s Pro Photo Supply, who donated the large prints and did a fantastic job.

CCA non-profit project