When you're a little girl, you often dream of what your life will be like: grow up, meet prince charming, get married, become a mother, & live happily ever after. The thought that your reality could be any less than perfect never enters your mind. Even though life doesn't always play out exactly the way you planned, some people never let the obstacles in their life stop them from getting all they've ever wanted. Kimberly, is one of those people.
When Kimberly was nine years old, she was faced health issues that you never dream a child would have to encounter. She began showing signs of trouble with her kidneys, that over time, progressed into chronic kidney disease. While the cause was never identified, she spent the next eleven years managing her health until it was necessary to start dialysis, a process that performs important functions for your kidneys when they are unable to do them on their own. Finally, at the age of 22, Kimberly received a kidney transplant from a family friend who lived just down the street. And because of that amazing gift, 7 years later, she is expecting her first child with husband Joe.
Kimberly, always wanting to have children, wasn't so sure her dreams would become a reality. Throughout her medical ups & downs, she would always pause to wonder, "Can I even have kids?". However, by being diligent about taking care of herself and working with her doctors, she was able to conceive and carry her little girl, who is due to join us in July 2016.
For many, overcoming such tough circumstances would likely get the best of them, but when it comes to Kimberly, you'd never know all of this when you meet her. It's not often you meet someone who doesn't let situations like this over power their life; as she refused to let her illness define who she was. While it isn't always easy, she maintains such a positive outlook on life and truly keeps things in perspective. She's attributes what she's been able to accomplish in her life to the awesome support system of family and friends that surround her every day. In her work as a registered nurse, she is constantly reminded that not everyone is so fortunate, and is incredibly grateful for the blessings she has been given.
Check out some of these sneak peek images from Kimberly & Joe's maternity session, as we patiently await their little girl! We visited The Law Quad, on University of Michigan's campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on gorgeous Sunday evening in early June. This is a popular location among photographers in the area, and I totally understand why!
Congratulations to you, Kimberly & Joe! I can't wait to meet your little bundle of joy!
