I first met Carrie Barber when I was a student at Loyalist College in Belleville. Photographing for PhotoSensitive's Life of Water show, and determined to do a story on aquatic-therapy, I was introduced to this bright, beautiful soul and her mother at the local YMCA.
Carrie has been neurologically disabled from birth, and at the time I started photographing her she had endured 68 brain related surgeries. In spite of the shunts meant to relieve the pressure, Carrie struggles with fluid build-up on the surface of her brain. In addition, a cerebral spinal fluid drip means her life is a steady rotation of doctors and therapy visits, sleeping, and full-time care by her diligent and compassionate mother. 

Sheila is a single-mom who's life revolves around Carrie's constant care. In all my years of knowing and photographing them, I have never heard them complain. Legally blind, Carrie manages with her cane, a smile and an incredible zest for life.  She is living proof that life isn't about the challenges you are facing, but how you rise to meet them.