Meet Ethan

When I got Ethan’s packet and saw that he loves the beach and horses, I knew I had to pull together an amazing beach horseback riding session, there was no other way in my opinion! At times, it felt that we would never get to shoot between illness, bad weather, and loss of family members, I thought we’d never get this session on the books. Finally, we kept our schedule and the looming storm stayed at bay until the next morning. During our session Ethan was just like any other two-year-old, running away from the camera and then running right up to the lens and saying “Me! Me!” He’s a budding little photographer and just had to take pictures of the horses. Ethan and his parents are in good spirits and Mom says that he loves the doctors and it’s just how life is to him. He thinks all little boys get to go to the hospital and visit the doctors and nurses. (Ethan’s story as told by his mom, Suzan) When Ethan was 18 months old we took him to the pediatrician for some sort of skin markings that wouldn't go away. The Dr. knew what it was right away, but didn't want to tell me without further testing. He said it could be nothing or could be serious. He immediately sent us to the er to have blood drawn just to be safe. I sat in the parking garage for a hour waiting for my husband so we could go in as a family. I just knew it was serious. Something just told me...sure enough after a while the oncology dr came and turned our world upside down. Ethan was diagnosed Sept.26th with high risk A.L.L. (acute lymphoid leukemia). We spent 2 weeks in the hospital, and were given a road map of treatments that will last over the next 2-3 years. A few months ago more was found in his bone marrow, which has altered our course, but we are still fighting and expecting his battle to last another 3 years. In the beginning it was very difficult and we didn't know how we would ever get through every day. In just 6 months time Ethan has adapted amazingly. He loves going to the clinic and hospital. The every day battle has become our new "normal". We have a long road ahead, with a lot more spinal taps, chemo therapies, and a lot of oral medicines to come. We try to spend his good days having as much fun as possible. Watching curious George, playing on the beach, riding his 4 wheeler, or even just walking the zoo to see all the animals are some of his favorites! We pray everyday and put it all in Gods hands. We know he will lead us in the right path. Images by: Daryl Everett Photography ~ Jacksonville, Florida