My sister, Kristina, was an inspiration. When she was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer at 35 years old, we were all surprised. My athletic sister who ran marathons looked like she was in great health on the outside. No one would have guessed that a lump under her arm would spread through her entire body within a short amount of time.
Her world revolved around her daughter, who was just starting high school. Kristina wasn't going to give up. She battled cancer with a fierce spirit, enduring grueling chemo, radiation, and a double mastectomy all while supporting her daughter in everything from schoolwork to swim meets and gymnastics.
She taught junior high, being awarded a Lamp Lighter and an LISD Teacher of the Year. Even when scheduling doctor's appointments, she did everything she could to minimize disruption for her students. Through it all, Kristina's spirit never dimmed. Her smile and laughter were a beacon of light. She was my hero.
In December of 2022, I convinced her to come to my studio with my niece for a photo session. She was hesitant, self-conscious about her treatment's side effects. I assured her professional hair and makeup would make her feel beautiful again. Those pictures are my most treasured possessions. We laughed and had so much fun that day, a memory I hold dear.
Kristina knew her fight would end one day. A few years ago, she planned to write intentional letters to her daughter, twelve in all, each themed after favorite Disney movies they'd watched together. Our sister, Cecilia, even created beautiful artwork for each letter and envelope. I knew about these letters, but they slipped my mind until she had a sudden moment of clarity while in hospice. Plain as day, she told me where to find the bag with the letters. My heart sank as I opened them, blank page after heartbreaking blank page. There just weren't enough hours in the day for everything Kristina wanted to do.
Thinking fast, I grabbed my phone and suggested we record what she wanted to say in the letters. Over the next few minutes Kristina dictated messages to her daughter, two clear recordings and later that day a third faint and weak. They were enough.
Christmas Eve 2023, she walked into Heaven with a perfect body. The last month of her life she was surrounded by the love of close family and friends through visits. Five years after her diagnosis was nowhere near enough time, but we cherished every moment.
After her Celebration of Life, I sat with her daughter on the bed and we watched the last recorded videos of her Mama together, tears streaming down our faces. Even the dog perked up at the sound of Kristina's voice. In that moment, a new purpose bloomed within me.
I don't want anyone to miss the chance to capture precious memories. That's why I'm launching Legacy Projects. We all have loved ones who are irreplaceable. When they're gone, what will you treasure most? My bet is the photos and videos that capture their spirit, their laughter, their love.
Legacy Projects* start with a consultation. We'll discuss what you envision, whether it's photos, videos, or both. Then, we'll brainstorm what makes this person special to you. Is it a favorite outfit? An activity they love? For videos, we can capture a typical day together or delve into their past, recording stories they've never shared. Maybe they want to leave messages for future milestones: graduations, weddings, births. The possibilities are endless.
I can't recreate the moments I had with Kristina, but together we can capture new memories for you and your loved ones. Let Legacy Projects help you capture the love and light of the people who mean so much to you. Because Moments Become Memories™
Let's talk about your Legacy.
*In honor of Kristina, 10% of every Legacy Project will be donated to The Bridge Breast Network, supporting access to critical breast cancer services.
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