KIRRA | MAGIC HOUR SESSION
I had the absolute honor of photographing Kirra and her family this week through the Magic Hour Foundation!
This was my very FIRST session with Magic Hour, and I am just so humbled and honored to play even a small part in the awesome work that they are doing.
The Magic Hour Foundation is a non profit organization that provides free portrait sessions to those in the fight against cancer.
These charitable photo sessions provide an opportunity for families to feel special and strong while they relax, smile and enjoy time with their loved ones. We strive to express compassion and love as we support and love on families, no matter the outcome of their battle.
Many of you may know that my daughter Ella Grace is named after my grandmother that we lost far too soon to Cancer. I will never forget her battle and the toll that it took on my family. It's been many years since she passed away, and I think of her all the time. Every single day. I think of her every time I say my sweet girls name, or see a streak of stubbornness in her that she could've only gotten from her namesake!
We cherish the memories along with the photos that we have of her. That is why this cause, and my partnership with this non-profit is so important to me. My Nana always taught us to give until it hurts, and to give with a joyful heart. Nothing brings me greater joy than sharing my gift with others.
So, let's talk about my new little friend Kirra!!!
In March of this year Kirra's mommy got the news of every mommy's worst nightmare. "Your baby has cancer".
Since that time their lives have been turned upside down, and this little family has endured heartache and worry that I cannot even fathom.
Kirra's mom Cassie is a true pillar of strength. Through chatting with her leading up to this session, and during the time I was able to spend with them, her uplifting spirit and positive attitude sets the tone for this little family. In the middle of their storm, this momma is an anchor of hope and strength for not only her family, but others she has met along their journey.
Is it always easy? She will tell you quickly that it is not- but that still doesn't change her outlook or take away her smile. When I was saying to her, "I cannot even imagine what you guys have been through." Cassie took the opportunity to tell me about some of the awesome families that she has had the opportunity to connect with since Kirra's battle with cancer began. Cassie reminded me that no matter how bad things may seem, there is always someone who has it worse.
Cassie often reaches out to other local families who are dealing with childhood cancer. She has so much on her own plate with Kirra's treatments and health, and her own work and school- and here is this momma reaching out to others to offer support and a shoulder to cry on.
(I am not crying- You are crying!!!)
I often say this, and that's because it is JUST so true..Together we are ALWAYS stronger!
Your story is so powerful and sharing your journey with someone else can be just the fuel that they need to fight through their own battle.
Let's not forget Kirra's daddy! Needless to say she has him wrapped around her tiny little finger. He loves his sweet girl, and that is so evident every single time he looks at her.
THE SESSION
I was nervous the day of our session. This was a very special little girl and such an amazing cause. I needed to bring everything I had, and give them my very best. Mind over matter.. Mind over matter... I kept telling myself.
I felt my hands starting to shake as I saw them drive up. As soon as Kirra's sparkly butterfly sandals hit the parking lot she was running to me and jumped into my arms! ( HEART INSTANTLY MELTED!)
Here I am this grownup shaking like a leaf - nervous to meet this incredible little warrior... and SHE is the one that jumps into my arms with a huge grin on her face hugging me, comforting ME and so excited to meet a new friend! She hugged me so tight, then started to fix the collar on my shirt.
We were instant friends, and that's just what friends do!! ha!!
Kirra proceeded to ask me did I know that she had a port, and pulled back her little dress strap to show me.
Kirra has a light that radiates from within and it is somewhat difficult to describe. I can honestly say that I have never met anyone like her before and if I had to come up with a word to describe it, that word would be "electric".
Kirra has an electric personality. She shines so bright and effortlessly cast light on anyone within her reach. During my time playing with Kirra at the park during our session she boldly approached everyone that crossed our paths. She picked flowers and brought them to an elderly couple walking through the park, and made fast friends with a sweet lady who was relaxing in the park on her break from work. She draws you in with this incredible light and you cannot be in her presence without being infected by her joy.
When planning this session with Kirra's mommy I found out that Kirra really loves butterflies!
This seemed like a perfect theme for this little girl's session because around the world people view the butterfly as representing endurance, change, hope, and life. These are all things that make up such a big part of Kirra's journey over the past few months.
Let's talk about that DRESS!!
I wanted Kirra's session to be perfect. To be magical. To be everything that a 4 year old could dream of.
I had no budget, but I had a vision, and that was going to have to be enough.
Wouldn't you know that an angel stepped in JUST at the right point and created this AMAZING dress for Kirra. This angel's name is Mary Youssef and she owns a boutique called Marie Belle Couture. Mary designs and hand makes the most gorgeous gowns!
I am part of an online group where small shop owners and photographers often collaborate for projects. I reached out to the group explaining that I had a very special session coming up and asked if anyone had anything with a butterfly theme that would help make this session magical for a very special butterfly princess.. Moments later Mary reached out to me and the rest is history!
Mary designed this stunning gown JUST for Kirra. She cut a pattern and began sewing as most of us were already in bed.
She cut and sewed throughout the night so that the dress could be completed and shipped out in time to make it to me before our session!
WOW. Just wow. There are so many amazing people in this world and without a doubt Mary at Marie Belle Couture is one of those people. This amazing lady asked for absolutely nothing in return. She did not want recognition or money. She simply wanted to bring joy to the life of an amazing little girl that she had never even met.
She accomplished that goal!! It was HARD to fight back the tears when I saw Kirra's face light up as she pranced around in that gorgeous gown made just for her. She transformed into a butterfly princess the instant this dress slipped over her head. Nothing short of MAGICAL! Even though she did not do this for recognition, I think she deserves it! Be sure to check out her gorgeous work at Marie Belle Couture | Facebook
God is so good. All the time. In the middle of our storms and in the middle of our joy.
He puts people in our paths to bring us hope and light.
I am SO grateful that I was able to meet Kirra and hear her story. I loved every second of laughing with her family! I have been so blessed by them and this experience. As I sit here a day later, I still feel warmth from the glow of Kirra's light that shines so bright on those around her.
I wish this precious family nothing but the best!
I stand with you to fight this fight!
I am rooting for you and I am praying for you!
I AM KIRRA TOUGH!
XOXO
Rachel
Rachel Smith Photography
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To make a donation to Kirra's family towards medical expenses link directly to her official funding page here
Connect with the Kirra Tough team and follow her journey at
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To apply for a session through the Magic Hour Foundation or to learn more visit:
Link HERE to Magic Hour Foundation
