The One Mission is a childcare foundation dedicated to helping out pediatric cancer patients and their families during this hard time. This foundation was built because of the struggles and challenges the founders faced with their son at only 7 months old. One Mission has grown across the country because of the Buzz-Off Event, which they hold every year. In June I had the privilege of donating my time to help photograph the event with my friend Shannon. It was an honor to spend the day next to Shannon Cronin, Annmarie Swift and Alisha Maria. This was new territory for me, but I knew Gronk was going to be there. We all were on our best behavior we were hired to be professional and we all were. I didn’t know who or what I would see. I felt lost in a way, which may sound selfish because looking at all of these families suffering from this terrible disease, and but I found it hard to photograph at times. I shed some tears seeing a dad crying when a family member shaved their head. It touched me. His son was given a sign football by the top fundraiser at this event. The whole day was an emotional roller coaster but all positive. Tears that were shed were tears of joy not sadness. It was a truly inspirational day! I’d be lying if I didn’t say I definitely considered shaving my head, it crossed my mind! There is always next year!
A huge thank you to the founders for creating this amazing event! Enjoy a few photos from this inspirational day!
I hope to be a part of this event next year. If you would like to donate or go bald for kids with cancer please check out the websites below. Hope to see you next year at the Buzz-Off Event!!!
Thank you to a dear friend Shannon Cronin for inviting me to be a part of this special day!
xoxo Jen Araya
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