Cancer: a two-syllable term that, upon hearing it spoken, possesses the power to bring someone to their knees.
Well, with the exception of dad-of-three Ray Burrow, a North Carolina native, who has been fighting throat cancer every day since being diagnosed with the disease three years ago.
And despite his tireless tries at ridding himself of the cancer, clocking up hours of time spent undergoing chemotherapy, radiation and multiple surgeries, tragically, the cancer is too aggressive, causing Ray to forgo treatment from here on out.
However, this terminal diagnosis isn’t going to stop Ray and his family enjoying the time they have left together. Not only that, but there is no way Ray is leaving this world without celebrating the biggest moments of his children’s lives.
Even if they haven’t happened yet…
“I knew there was no time to waste,” Ray’s wife of 20 years, Christy, told CBS News.
“My husband and I have made every effort to keep our children’s lives as normal as possible, so I knew this was our opportunity to give our children memories that they would need to carry with them through some of the hardest days that are sure to come.”
With this in mind, Christy organised for their three children, Zaidee, 15, Ava, 13, and 9-year-old Nathan, to participate in a photo shoot that will capture these memories, with their dad, forever.
Image courtesy of Southern Fried Photography.
Image courtesy of Southern Fried Photography.
Working with Southern Fried Photography’s Jennifer Williams and Amanda Ward, who, themselves, had lost their fathers in the last five years, Christy and Ray were able to create their two girls’ wedding days, as well as their son’s graduation.
“Ray – father, husband, brother and friend – has been battling throat cancer for several years and is sadly nearing the end of his difficult journey,” the photographers’ wrote of the moving picture series on their Facebook page.
“Although he was tired, in pain, and a bit disoriented, he toughed it out during a hot and humid afternoon to leave some eternal memories for his family.”
“A photo with his children in their caps and gowns since he won’t be there the day that they walk across the stage and receive their diplomas.”
“A photo with his daughters in a wedding gown because he won’t be able to give them away.”
“Even a few fun photos with friends and family to show he hasn’t lost his sense of humor or his spunk!”
Image courtesy of Southern Fried Photography.
Image courtesy of Southern Fried Photography.
With Ray now in hospice care and expected to pass away within the next few days, these memories will last a lifetime for his wife and kids.
Our thoughts are with all who know and love Ray during this difficult time.
If you would like to donate any money to support Ray and his family, visit their YouCaring compassionate crowd-funding page here.
