Photographing this birthday was absolutely a wonderful experience. Her family created this amazing moment for Grace that I KNOW she will remember for the rest of her life. All the love given by everyone around her was palpable.

My fondest moment was also one that still hurts my bones. It was time for me to pickup and go. My back was stiff. My knees and arms were sore. It was almost 1am. Just as I was pitting my lenses in my bag, Grace stepped on stage before her guests and began to give a speech that chilled me to the core. It was authentic. It was real. It was inspiring to hear such a young woman give such wisdom to her elders and equals. I pulled out my camera quickly, got on my knees and started shooting her powerful moment on stage.