May has been designated as Early Intervention Awareness Month.  Early Intervention, also known as Infant and Toddler Connection in Virginia, is where I am fortunate enough to work when I'm not photographing incredible families.  We have amazing providers and staff that help our littlest ones ages birth through three with everything from developmental delays to more severe challenges.  http://www.infantva.org/

Not all special needs are apparent though.  Today Stills that Speak Photography is showcasing Lucy.  Clearly you can see what a bright shining star she is...just LOOK at those eyes and that smile.  SHE kept a smile on MY face throughout this nursing session.  Her smile is infectious - you simply can't be in the room with her and not have a grin on your own face.  What you can't see is though, is that this precious sweetheart has been diagnosed with a very rare form of epilepsy called Dravet Syndrome http://www.dravetfoundation.org/dravet-syndrome/what-is-dravet-syndrome

Regardless the diagnosis, mom embraces (literally) the blessing that Lucy is!  As always a parent's thoughts from the heart convey that best.  "Despite the challenges her diagnosis brings, we are the luckiest parents on the planet. She is absolutely amazing, a ray of light!  She brings so much joy and laughter into our world and has even brought incredibly inspiring people into our lives that we never would have had the opportunity to meet.  We are so lucky"  And truth be known...how blessed is Lucy to have such a loving mom?!