I left my phone on… {Timeless Keepsakes}

In starting the non-profit Timeless Keepsakes I had one goal in mind.. to photograph as many families as I possibly could with children that are sick, fighting for their lives.  I knew that in being the extremely emotional person that I am that I would get attached and my heart would ache for many families.  I can’t even fathom the true rawness these families go though on basically a daily basis, the unknown haunting them.. or sometimes even worst – the knowing.

I also had no idea on how the community would react to Timeless Keepsakes, nor did I know if the families that could use my service become offend with my service.  I also had no idea on who would come into and sadly out of my life as this little Timeless Keepsakes family expanded.

All, I knew is something deep inside of me made me know I HAD to do this.. I had to try!  Then life got in the way and Timeless Keepsakes got put on hold…

Then on a fateful Sunday in January 8th, 2011 at a Bridal Show a woman and her daughter caught my attention and started down though the mass of the bridal show.  Stopping and visiting vendors as they slowly worked my way, I don”t know what drew my attention to them in this huge crowd.  It wasn’t till they got a bit closer that I noticed she was in a wheelchair.. I couldn’t tell why.  She looked very fit, healthy, young and extremely happy to be there.  I just assumed that she broke a foot or something…

Then they came to my booth, and well, they needed a photographer.  It also was apparent that Brandi wasn’t suffering from a broken foot.  And to be honest I became hesitant, I didn’t know what to do, I didn’t want to offend her but at the same time I didn’t feel like I should ignore the fact she was in a wheelchair.  After a few minutes of talking to Brandi and her mom Tanya I realized whatever was wrong with Brandi was serious.   I asked Brandi if I could photograph her wedding for no charge and if she could be the poster child of what I want Timeless Keepsakes to be able to offer.  I think at first Brandi thought I was kinda joking, as who would offer a $3,000 service for free.  But Brandi didn’t see her moms face, I did, the amount of relief, shock and I couldn’t even count the other emotions that hit her face all at once made me feel suddenly okay that I even mentioned Timeless Keepsakes.  After saying our goodbyes and they started off to see the other vendors around us, but Tanya came back real quick and gave me a huge hug and her eyes were filled with tears.  And told me that I have no idea how much this means to them.

Since meeting them in January I’ve gotten to know the family and how amazing they are they are the most compassionate, giving and loving group of people and I’m honored to call them friends.  I’m also honred that Tanya accepted my proposal to be the vice president of Timeless Keepsakes.

So now Tanya is fighting for Brandi’s life.  Brandi is back in the hospital in the ICU after just getting out of the hospital only a few days ago.  Last night on facebook Tanya left this comment on Timeless Keepsakes..

As many of you know my daughter Brandi was admitted to the intensive care unit last week. She was re-admitted to the ICU this afternoon.

Brandi’s endocrinologist told us tonight that Brandi needs a pancreas transplant. It was mentioned back in March but the hospital that was contacted in Chicago rejected her as a candidate because of her adrenal failure. IF we can find a hospital willing to do the transplant it may give her another 2-3 years.

I need all of our friends and family to help us compile a list of hospitals across the country that do this type of transplant. I need contact names and phone numbers as soon as possible. The search begins tomorrow. I appreciate any help you all can give.Brandi’s endocrinologist told them that Brandi needs a pancreas transplant. It was mentioned back in March but the hospital that was contacted in Chicago rejected her as a candidate because of her adrenal failure.

When I first read this on I didn’t know what to do.. So I left my phone on, knowing that at the very least I can be there for Tanya if needed.  And late at night I heard the distinctive beep beep of my phone.  Tanya needed to talk and all I knew I could do is listen.  I didn’t know what to say last night and I felt it was wrong to say everything is going to be okay, because it isn’t.  It’s very hard not having answers or knowing where to get the answers.  I sat up all night worrying about something I couldn’t control and the unknowing as being an “outsider” only really knowing what is told to me.  I then realized it was just as hard on the extended family and friends to have someone they care about sick.  It’s hard..

Brandi and Tanya, I hope you guys realize how much you mean to me and that if there is anything I can do for you.. please don’t hesitate!  Tanya, my phone is on all night for you.. call me anytime!

These pictures are from Tanyas Facebook Page by permission

from Tanya!