I want to take a moment to recognize my dear friend, Jonathan Jones.
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I don’t know what your beliefs are about God or a higher power, but I highly recommend listening to Dr. Wayne W. Dyer's book, Real Magic. It touches on the mysteries of life, and after my experience with Jon, I’ve seen just how powerful those mysteries can be.
Last year, Jon received devastating news from his doctors. He was told he had about a year to live, fighting a losing battle against a rare and aggressive nerve disorder. His health was rapidly declining—he was losing the ability to speak and had lost nearly all strength in one of his hands, among other symptoms. Jon, always a man of immense courage, called me one day and asked for a favor: he wanted me to take family photos before he passed away.
Without hesitation, I dropped everything and drove six hours to be with him, camera in hand. What I experienced that day was one of the most heartbreaking moments of my life. Jon was preparing his two sons for his death, sorting out family finances, and sharing deeply emotional moments with his wife and mother. It felt like I was attending a wake, except Jon was still with us, fighting against time.
Flash forward to today—I had lunch with Jon, and the man sitting across from me was a miracle. He is completely symptom-free. No medication, no lingering ailments, nothing. The doctors are utterly dumbfounded, and Jon is healthier and more vibrant than ever. Against all odds, he’s thriving.
There are days when I question whether I should continue my journey as a photographer. I know I’m not the best out there, but I think people can tell that I genuinely care. Jon has been one of my biggest supporters, constantly encouraging me to pursue this passion. Without his unwavering belief in me, I probably would have given up long ago.
So, to Jon, to life, and to whatever higher power watches over us, thank you. Thank you for being such a great friend, for allowing me to capture your family’s most intimate moments during those tragic days, and for showing me what real magic looks like. Jon, you are truly a miracle, and your story continues to inspire me on my path as a photographer.
