In 2014, photographers brought together these three beautiful cancer survivors in a photo shoot and the photo went viral, touching the hearts of people all over the world.
Now, shared exclusively with Today, the three girls have been brought together again.
Rheann Franklin, 8, Ainsley Peters, 6 and Rylie Hughey, 5, first met at the first photoshoot while battling different types of cancer.
Earlier this year, photographer Lora Scantling who lives in Oklahoma, US, decided to bring the families back together to see how far the girls had come.
L-R: Riley, Rheann and Ainsley. Photo: Lora Scantling
“We decided to do it holding the original picture this year so everyone could see how much they have changed! All three girls are doing great and are still cancer free and in remission,” Lora told Today.
“I love seeing the girls with each other!” she continued. “The bond they have is incredible and it’s really neat that they understand that their picture has been seen all over the world and that they have made a huge difference for childhood cancer awareness!”
Photo: Lora Scantling
Lora also shared updates on how the girls are doing in their remission:
Rylie is getting scans every three months but is doing well. “She has left the hospital and now enjoys her days in Pre-K, gymnastics, dance and T-ball,” said Lora.
Rheann, the oldest of the three, won’t regain her hair due to dozens of rounds of chemo and radiation. Her eyes slightly droop due to where the tumour was, but “she loves to ride her bike, hang out with her school friends, and she loves to play with her sisters.”
Ainsley remains in remission and has her blood monitored monthly. Lora said ‘she is enjoying the springtime.’
Lora was inspired to take the original image after her stepfather was battling lung cancer.
Photo: Lora Scantling
“I wanted to capture something that would speak a million words in a single portrait! Bringing awareness to childhood cancer holds a special place in my heart,” she said.
Trending video: Liz Ellis welcomes baby boy
