I had the opportunity to photograph a friend who is going through a difficult pregnancy. Tracy is one of the doulas that I work with and she and her husband are expecting their first child, who unfortunately has a genetic disorder and the baby is not expected to live long. I am amazed at the love, faith and strength this couple has.

I am so blessed that they asked me to take photographs for them and I am waiting on the call from her to head to the hospital to help capture the birth for them. It will be hard for all involved but she wants the images to help her grieve.

Here are a few of the images that I loved from the session. There are more on the blog as well as a link to the slideshow.

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If you are so inclined, please add Tracy, Robert and baby Lilly to your prayers.

Cat

very sweet. I love #3! at least w/modern science we can some-what prepare ourselves ahead of time for these situations, but I'm sure it will be tough. they're going to love these photos!!

Those are beautiful and they will treasure them always.

Awe... those are the most beautiful

beautiful. I think the couple will always be thankful that they did this. Just think of what a special place the pictures you take will hold for the rest of their lives - they will be irreplaceable and deeply cherished. what a privilege.

wow, what a hard situation... she's lucky to have a friend like you to help them through it all. They will really treasure these and you're probably doing mroe for them than you know. I love the shot in front of the blinds...

big eye smacking hug sent your way

Catherine,

Gorgeous heartfelt images . They will cherish them forever.

I hope I'm not overstepping and you don't have to answer, but does baby Lilly have Trisomy 13? My friend's sister just lost her son a few hours after birth so when I read your post I couldn't help but wonder. Soon after her sister found out I came across a BEAUTIFUL video a father of a T13 baby made for his son. I don't think I cried so hard in years. God bless these families and bless you too for helping them keep her memory alive.

No, Lilly has been diagnosed with Trisomy 18 a similar disorder. They have no way of knowing what they will be facing other than a very small baby estimated at 4 pounds and the expectation that they will provide comfort care and see what transpires. Her due date is August 15th so we are waiting for the call.

I think it's even harder for her because this is their first pregnancy. Thankfully she has all of us in our birth network to be there for her and her family. It will be hard but I cannot imagine not being there with her.

Cat

These are beautiful. Your conversions are gorgeous. I'm sure they will treasure them - bless you for doing this difficult work.