Kara's Picture-Perfect Wish

Kara, age 16, has leukemia. Diagnosed only last year, she has endured a brutal regimen of chemotherapy treatments. Often feeling sick and weak, Kara explored wishes that would keep her occupied and take her mind off the physical discomfort and limitations imposed by her illness. Inspired by her dad, a passionate amateur photographer, and after a long and carefully thought-out decision-making process, she declared her wish: for photography equipment.

Everyone involved in this wish was inspired by Kara, her strength, courage, and her talent. On her wish day she received a camera, studio props, and special lighting equipment, thanks to the expertise and hard work of her wish granter. And she was introduced to two professional photographers who donated their time to teach her the tricks of their trade. Camilynne took Kara on a CD photo shoot, and then helped Kara take professional quality pictures of her family. She showed Kara how to set up the photo and arrange the group. The final result: a beautiful photograph that will be a memory for ever.

Kent Miles, the documentary photographer who has provided black-and-white portraits of wish kids for many years, took Kara under his wing and taught her some vital lighting lessons and other clever technical tips. And in the middle of it all, Discover Financial Services, who had adopted Kara's wish, treated her to lunch and showered her with additional accessories to make her wish complete.

Kara’s mom told us how, on a day-to-day basis, Kara's photography wish has been a wonderful diversion, "In having the equipment, she is able to put her mind in other places and think of other things. It's been beautiful to see her excited and the light in her eyes, and to see the creativity." And then she added, "The wish gave her hope and something out of the ordinary. All the way through it, people seemed so thrilled to be able to do something to enhance her life. It just warms our heart to see the joy that has come from this. When people are kind to your children, it just makes you happy."

Landscape by Kara