My heart is breaking for the Dexter family. Their daughter Makayla, 18 months old, was recently diagnosed with brain tumors.

In high school, I volunteered at the Loma Linda Children’s hospital in the cancer ward playroom. It was a powerful experience to spend time with toddlers and young children fighting this difficult battle. I remember the first day I learned of a patient passing away- she was a little girl not much younger than Makayla. A toddler full of enthusiasm despite the constant pain and suffering.

Now that I have my own children, stories like this cut even deeper. I cannot imagine what her parents are going through right now. My thoughts and prayers are with her family as I hold my children a bit tighter.

To help raise funds for her family, and to honor the special bond between a mother and child, I am offering a limited number of Madonna mother & baby portrait sessions. This will be a session for you and your baby, age 12 months or younger. $300 includes the session fee and 3 8×10 mounted portraits of your choice. Your session can be held at your home or on location at the beach or park, and you will be shown approximately 12 proofs to choose from. 10% of the package and 25% of additional prints purchased will be donated to the Dexter family.

Makayla in June, photographed by a family friend. Image used with permission.

<b>Update 8/13:</b> I have just learned that Makayla passed away today. Please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers.