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.
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A brain scan from 1995 shows the stents designed to drain fluid from her brain.
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Carrie is prepared for an EEG.
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doctors, meds and more doctors. (and nail appointments)
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Carrie and a therapist take a walk around the block one winter morning.
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A midday nap.
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Bubbles and chlorophyl with mom!
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Carrie and her aqua-therapist at the YMCA.
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Sheila senses that something is wrong.
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