Photography Sessions
For us, photos have been one of the most cherished and meaningful gifts we’ve received. We are all about the “real” moments, and we have been lucky enough to have talented photographers capture Karter’s personality and our family on several occasions. Our dear and talented friend, Holly Grams, came to the NICU in what we thought were Karter’s “final” days. In doing so, she captured moments that my grief wouldn’t allow me to recall. I will be forever grateful to have these photos, as hard as they are to view. We don’t know what life has in store, and as far as I’m concerned I can NEVER have enough pictures! They represent us and our story. Photos allow you to relive and stay in a memory. When you have a child with a shortened life expectancy, these become even more invaluable.
Family photos can be challenging for any family, but it takes a special photographer to work with families with children who are severely affected by a brain injury. They also can be expensive, and when resources our limited, this isn’t something families like us can splurge on. Our mission is to sponsor a photo session at least on an annual basis. We will take nominations, contact the family, and coordinate the session detailss.
We would be honored to have you help us gift the gift of memories!
Meet Cole And Family
About Cole
Cole is a sweet 5 year old boy that loves his parents, his doggos (Gunner & Jackson), music and tons of movement! He likes to swing, shake and bounce non-stop!
Cole's Story
Cole was born at 36.5 weeks after Megan suddenly experienced a fetal maternal hemorrhage. This caused Cole to suffer from HIE (Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy), causing secondary diagnoses of spastic quad cerebral palsy, Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (seizures), plus many more. They originally brought Cole home on hospice, as the doctors didn’t expect him to live, let alone breathe, suck or swallow on his own. He’s been proving doctors wrong since day 1!
Words from Megan- Cole's Mom
"Cole’s smile is my favorite! It lights up any room he’s in and people are constantly trying to get him to smile. I want others to know that just because his eyes are closed, doesn’t mean he’s sleeping. Sometimes he closes his eyes because the environment he’s in is too much for him to process. Other times, it’s because he’s being stubborn and ignoring us!"
Family photos are so special because they allow us to look back and see the joy and love our family shares. Sometimes you can even catch Cole’s feisty personality on camera. Of course, this time he chose to ignore all of us! There’s that stubborn streak!
Carlson Family Photos Fall 2022 by Emily Koivisto
Meet Oliver and Family, Fall 2020
About Oliver
Oliver is a 4 year old boy who LOVES his family! Especially his sister, Harper. His parents, Mike and Maryssa, describe him as a sweet and silly child. He loves anything that plays music or lights up! He also loves hearing marching bands at parades! Anyone who meets Oliver immediately falls in love with his infectious smile and full-of-joy personality. He exudes joy and happiness in every way!
Oliver's Story
Oliver was born at 37.5 weeks via emergency C-section. The day he was born Maryssa felt little movement, so naturally, she went to the hospital to ensure her baby was safe. Within 45 minutes of arriving, Oliver was born not breathing. Doctors explained that for some unknown reason, Oliver was deprived of oxygen in utero due to massive blood loss. Unfortunately, they still can't explain the exact cause.
Oliver was later diagnosed with a birth injury type known as Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE). This HIE injury has lead to other diagnoses including spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, vision issues, and the need for a G/J feeding tube.
Words from Maryssa
"Oliver has definitely had to deal with more surgeries and therapies than any child should have to, but that doesn't take away his happiness! I couldn't imagine Oliver being any other way. He has changed our life for the better, and I will forever love his beautiful blue eyes and big happy smile!"
Photos by Holly Grams
Help Our Cause
We are NOW ACCEPTING donations! Your generous donations will fund our mission projects! You may donate any amount- Everything helps! Donate online by clicking the box below. Or send checks to:
KourageousKarter Foundation
PO Box 184
Hugo, MN 55038
Donations are Tax Deductible!
EIN: 84-4126787
