Living on a Prayer Photo

Photographer’s Note

This boy is just a few days away from death. After an accident at home, he was left with a ruptured stomach and could not eat. The doctors did their best to find a solution and the boy decided he wanted to become a doctor. The examined his internal organs, but could not offer any hope.

The priest (a friend of mine) was called in to take his final confession since he now only had two days to live.

The next day, he wanted to eat and to everyone's amazement, it stayed inside. In this photo, he is a few days from death, but on the right side and healing! He later told the priest he no longer wanted to be a doctor, but a priest. The priest then whispered to him, "We are sort of doctors too."

worldcitizen, dareco, mariandrea, casperduppy has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

dareco (17024) 2009-05-30 16:34

I find this post to be very emotional, both the portrait and your note. His eyes appear to be pleading. I do hope and pray that his dreams will all come true. TFS

mariandrea (973) 2009-05-30 23:58

Hi Dan, really tough story, and an exceptional portrait, it transmits so many mixed feelings... a look that talks, and a picture that tells. thanks for sharing, chau chau,

Maria

casperduppy (1460) 2009-05-31 12:03

Hi Dan,
What a striking shot and story. I can't imagine it was easy for you to photograph him at this time, looking so sullen yet mind-strong.. What you recorded really communicates in this sensitive portrait and note, with hope, humour and humility combined.
All the best to you and of course your subject, Casper