Medical Background: Angelman Syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by an abnormality on the 15th chromosome. The syndrome results in a significant delay which is very severe, making independent life impossible. Angels require a lifetime of 24/7 care and support. They suffer from a speech impairment, and have little or no verbal communication skills. Angels suffer from a movement or balance dissorder... some angels walk with difficulty, some don't walk at all. Angels suffer from multiple types of seizures which are often very difficult to predict or control. Angels also suffer from sleep disturbances that can keep them awake 2-5 hours a night. Angels suffer from feeding difficulties; this can require a lifetime of feeding intervention. Despite all of the challenges they face; Angels are blessed with a behavioral uniqueness. Children with Angelman Syndrome are often referred to as "Angels" due to their happy demeanor, warm smile and unconditional love for people. Angels have the most beautiful smiles!!! They're laughter can brighten anyone's day! The genetic cause and understanding of Angelman Syndrome was only discovered in the mid-1900's. Most people have never heard of Angelman's Syndrome. And through all this ~ there are still SMILES, LAUGHTER and HOPE. The sky is the limit for our Angels! Please support our Angels, so that one day they may find their voices.
(Text provided by National Angelman Syndrome Walk FB Event Log)
This was by far one of the most emotional photoshoots I have ever done...even more so than weddings & births. I received a wealth of thanks for volunteering my time and taking pictures. But my involvement paled in comparison to the love & commitment that I was shown by the families of these Angels. To the parents and families of the Angels present at the walk, this is a small preview of the 500+ images I took yesterday. Thank you for sharing your families and your time with me. Please visit my "Angelman Syndrome" gallery on my image website, where you'll be able to download any images you want with full print releases. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. God bless you and your Angels.
(Password - Angel)
Gallery should be completed within the next week...there are a lot of pictures!
No comments:
Post a Comment