I hope this description provides both a sufficient explanation for the picture and an update on how Sophia is doing.
I usually hate long descriptions for photos... but, eh. yeah

*

It is almost uncomfortable for me to look at particular photos from the summer of 2006. Many of them are strangely ironic.
I am aware of the fact that the overall idea for this photo is cliché: something I have previously done before and is one that has consistently been accomplished. In all essence, however, this is a photo I do like. But perhaps this is more for the symbolism and story behind the meaning; the way it connects to those previous ironic photos -the ones that were more of an uncanny foreshadow –something that strangely unfolded throughout the upcoming months. I am talking more specifically about my “Operation Sunshine” and “The Unknown World.” I thought it would be interesting and fulfilling to re-shoot this idea after almost two years since the previous.

I have had many ask me about my cousin Sophia, wanting an update on how she has been doing. I am amazed by how sweet and supportive people are. I feel bad for avoiding the topic, but I felt a photo like this would be a decent “re-introduction” or whatever you want to call it.

Last winter, Sophia, my now 8-year-old cousin, was found with a 5 cm brain tumor around her pituitary gland. It was an incredibly difficult time in my family’s lives and my own. She is practically my little sister. I, to this day, continue to ask myself, “Why?” I am irritated by the fact that such injustice is so often brought upon the innocent.

The first surgery was a Tuesday February 13, 2007. After over 24 hours in other various operations, the doctors successfully removed the tumor. I don’t think anyone knew what would be in store for the upcoming months, nor do we know what is to lie ahead. What I am certain of, however, is that Sophia will continue to improve. There is an innate, strong will in children that astounds me.

Due to the nerve damage, Sophia lost her peripheral vision in her right eye and is legally blind in her left. She has enough vision in her right eye to get around, do beads, read, etc, but the vision is still poor. (Hence the photo, in which her right eye is shown –the same one that I unconsciously showed in my previous “The Unknown World” photo). Sophia’s hypothalamus was also damaged. She can, thus, no longer tell when she her stomach is full. It remains a constant, day-to-day struggle for my aunt and uncle. In addition, her body can no longer produce any hormones –from adrenaline to growth hormones. She takes daily shots and pills to aid this particular issue.

Those constant struggles and evasive problems are devastating and frustrating, but also tend to be blinding. It is important to remember all the good that came out: the fact that she is living, breathing, laughing, smiling, playing –being the sweet girl that she has always been. Sophia continues to get better everyday and has improved so much since last year.

I took this picture about a week ago. In the upcoming years, I would like to create a series.

Thank you for reading; for your thoughts, support, and prayers. I also came across this photo today [link] . Please do the same for him.



Edit: and thank you for all the kind words! I'm sorry i can't respond to everyone, but i appreciate everything you all have said.

Copyright © Antonio Ysursa
Please do not use this photo in any way without my permission