Joy in a Period of Trial

Expecting a child should be filled with moments of joy.

Most clients that stand in front of my camera experience the same emotions – joy, anticipation, fear, love.  Waiting for a new baby should be a time filled with happiness.  But I met Hillary during a very difficult trial.  When I heard about what she was going through, my heart went out to her.  Even now, writing this blog, I struggle to put my own emotions into words regarding her circumstances.

In January, Hillary was 5 months pregnant and visiting out of state when she got word her husband, Eugene, was in a really bad motorcycle accident.   She drove over 10 hours to get home, to be by his side.  His injuries were very serious and he was facing renal failure among other complications.   It was this moment of her life when I reached out to her.  I admit I felt silly offering her a maternity session at the time.  But at the same time, I couldn’t stop thinking about how important it was for her to do.

Luckily, she accepted my offer and I was able to spend the afternoon photographing this beautiful woman.  We curled her hair and put her make-up on.  We talked about girl stuff and picked out some gowns.  Her spirit was so positive despite her very real hardships.  It was an honor to photograph her session.

Life is a gift.  We grow and we connect with others.  We create life and life can be taken away. There are moments when we can see this gift.  Moments we understand how fragile this gift is, but how perfect and beautiful at the same time.

“A flower that blooms in adversity is the rarest and most beautiful of all.” – Walt Disney

These photographs show a beautiful woman expecting a child. But these also are a reminder of her grit and courage, her strength through her trials.

Now, after 8 weeks in the ICU, Eugene is recovering!  And even better, he is home in time for the birth of his son!

“We feel so blessed to be surrounded by so many loving and caring friends and family. Prayers have been answered and continue to be. Thank you so much to everyone who has kept our little family in your prayers. We’re blessed to have you all.” – Hillary, Facebook Post March 17th.

I am so excited for this little guys arrival.  It makes my heart happy to know this family is whole.  I feel very blessed to have captured this very special pregnancy.  Remember to hug your spouse tighter and give your kids extra kisses when they sleep.

 

“Though these past few weeks have been an emotional roller coaster, one thing is for sure, Eugene and I are absolutely overjoyed to welcome our baby boy into this world. Thank you for capturing some joy in a period of trial.” – Hillary

 

“Nice to see that through all the turmoil my wife could get away and be her beautiful self. It made me so happy to see her so happy.” – Eugene

 

And now my favorite image of Hillary…

She is the most beautiful kind of beautiful.

Cydnee Jex

Photographer

CLJ Photography

***If you do want to donate to this couple, here is the link to do so: https://www.gofundme.com/we-love-you-eugene-hillary-ryder.  Their goal has been met!***

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