Carter King was just five years old when he was diagnosed with DIPG (Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma), a rare and aggressive brain tumor. Despite facing this devastating diagnosis, Carter’s spirit shone brightly through his love of Star Wars, aviation, the Addams Family, and everything quirky. His joy for life was infectious, and it was clear from his many moments of laughter, play, and love that this boy was a force to be reckoned with. In the first blog post I shared about Carter, we celebrated his courage, creativity, and positivity — even in the face of immense challenges.
As the months passed, Carter's mother, Joanna, shared updates on the "Courage for Carter" Facebook page, offering a glimpse into their journey. Through the highs and the lows, Carter continued to fight with all the bravery he could muster, surrounded by love from family, friends, and a community who stood beside him.
Though Carter's story was tragically cut short, his legacy continues to inspire all of us. His courage, imagination, and warmth live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him — and in the families who are now embracing Carter’s Courage Sessions.
What Are Carter’s Courage Sessions?
Inspired by Carter’s incredible strength, these sessions are for children, teens, and young adults who are battling terminal illnesses or life-limiting conditions. Just like Carter, these sessions are about honoring the spirit of the individual, showcasing their unique passions, creativity, and love for life. From their favorite hobbies to their most treasured pets, Carter’s Courage Sessions are designed to celebrate everything that makes them who they are — right now.
Each session is customized to capture the personality and essence of the person. Whether it's a Star Wars-themed shoot, a creative moment with Legos, or simply quiet, intimate portraits with family, these sessions are never rushed. They are all about slowing down, capturing memories that can last a lifetime, and celebrating every moment of courage.
The reason I offer Carter’s Courage Sessions is simple — it’s to create something lasting for families who are navigating difficult times. It’s about giving them the opportunity to hold onto something precious and meaningful — no matter how short the time may be. The stories that come from these sessions are often filled with tears, laughter, and a deep sense of connection that words cannot fully express.
Why Are These Sessions Important?
The purpose behind Carter’s Courage Sessions isn’t just to take photos — it’s to give families a chance to hold onto memories of their loved ones in a way that feels personal, meaningful, and real. These sessions can be an important part of the healing process, allowing families to embrace the beauty and strength of their loved ones in a time of uncertainty. It’s a way to honor their journey, document their courage, and preserve their legacy.
Carter’s legacy continues to inspire, and it’s been an honor to carry his memory forward through this work. I’m humbled to be able to offer these sessions to families who are looking for a way to celebrate the lives of their loved ones, no matter what they may be going through.
If you or someone you know could benefit from a Carter’s Courage Session, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help create lasting memories for families who need them the most.