Gold Hope Project Photoshoot: Celebrating Peyton’s Strength and Pediatric Cancer Awareness

Corona Del Mar • Newport Beach • California

Stephanie Ip Photography

Posted on October 27, 2024

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📍 Little Corona Del Mar, Newport Beach, California
📆 October 27, 2024 ☀️ Sunset at 6pm
🌡️ Clear sky weather
🎬 Start time at 5:40pm

Capturing Hope: My Experience with The Gold Hope Project

On October 27, 2024, I had the honor of volunteering as a photographer for The Gold Hope Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families affected by pediatric cancer. This experience was more than just a photoshoot—it was a chance to give back, to capture moments of love, strength, and resilience, and to provide families with cherished memories of their little fighters.

What is The Gold Hope Project?

The Gold Hope Project is a nonprofit that offers free portrait sessions to children battling cancer. Their mission is to provide families with beautiful, professional photos that celebrate their child’s bravery. In addition to these priceless sessions, the organization also raises awareness for pediatric cancer and helps fund vital research to find better treatments and potential cures.

Founded by Cynthia Dawson after the heartbreaking loss of her daughter Ava to a rare brain tumor, The Gold Hope Project was created to bring hope and comfort to families navigating similar challenges. Cynthia understood firsthand the power of photography in preserving memories, and she turned that personal grief into a movement that now serves families across the country.

A Story of Strength: Peyton’s Photoshoot

Peyton’s family was originally scheduled to have their Gold Hope Project photoshoot a year prior, while she was still undergoing chemotherapy. However, during my initial call with her mom to discuss the session, she shared that Peyton was hesitant about taking photos because she didn’t have hair. Respecting her wishes, we worked with The Gold Hope Project to extend the timeline for their photoshoot to when she felt ready.

One year later, in 2024, Peyton had won her battle with cancer and had begun her recovery journey. When I met her in person for the photoshoot, she looked just like a normal, happy kid. But deep down, in her eyes and soul, I could see the strength of a little girl who had been through so much at such a young age. She is truly special.

Capturing the Moments that Matter

In our pre-session discussion, Peyton’s mom and I talked about key moments to capture while still following The Gold Hope Project’s guidelines—one of which was to incorporate something gold into the session. As we planned, it became clear that this shoot was not just about Peyton but also about the love and support of her entire family. Peyton has an older sister and a younger brother, and while she was the star of the session, I made sure to document the sibling bond and include their grandmother in the photos as well. These images would serve as lasting memories of their journey together.

Despite everything she had been through, Peyton was amazing in front of the camera. She took posing instructions effortlessly, and I could tell she has a bright future ahead. Seeing her confidence and joy during the session was truly heartwarming.

A heartwarming Gold Hope Project photoshoot featuring Peyton, a childhood cancer survivor, alongside her family. This pediatric cancer awareness session captures love, resilience, and the power of hope. — Peyton’s Gold Hope Project photoshoot celebrates her journey as a childhood cancer survivor. This special session highlights her strength, family love, and the importance of pediatric cancer awareness.

Professional event photography at Keenan corporate event in Los Angeles — Key moments from Keenan’s corporate event at Hilton LAX

Why Awareness Matters

Pediatric cancer research remains underfunded compared to other types of cancer. By supporting organizations like The Gold Hope Project, we can help spread awareness and advocate for more research funding. Sharing stories, donating, and volunteering are all ways to contribute to this mission.

How You Can Help

If you are a photographer, consider volunteering your time to provide a free session to a family in need. If you’re not a photographer, you can still support The Gold Hope Project by donating, spreading awareness, or simply following and sharing their mission on social media. Every effort counts in bringing hope to these brave children and their families.

Visit The Gold Hope Project to learn more, sign up as a volunteer, or make a donation. Together, we can make a difference, one photograph at a time.