Finding the Strength to Overcome

Here are a few images from a photo story I have been

working on this semester. Dan & Jennifer Digmann are, by far, two of

the most inspirational people I have ever met. Combined, the couple

has faced multiple sclerosis for over twenty years.

[Above] "Push me out the window," Dan Digmann said while encouraging his wife to stretch and push out her impaired legs on Nov. 24, 2009 in their Mount Pleasant bedroom. Jennifer no long has the ability to walk due to her secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis.

[Below] Jennifer Digmann embraces her husband, Dan, after he lifts her out of her wheelchair to transfer her to their bed before stretching and exercising her legs on Nov. 24, 2009.

A Girl & Her Horse

CMU Women's Soccer vs. Western

CMU defeated Western Michigan University on November 1,

sending the team to the semifinals of the Mid-American Conference tournament.

[Property of CM Life]

"Running for Refuge"

"Senior Riak Mabil was born in Sudan, but was displaced to Kenya and eventually

came to the United States as a refugee in 2000. He considers the role of his teammate,

also from Southern Sudan, an influence in his decision to

run Cross Country and Track at Central Michigan."

This is not exactly the portrait I had envisioned. Although there are things I wish I would have done differently,

I have grown to appreciate the simplicity of it solely because of Riak's intricate life story.

I'd highly suggest taking the time to read Aaron McMann's article.

[Property of CM Life]

"Sweet Symphony"

Senior quarterback Dan LeFevour helps Drum Major David Bechard lead the fight song

after Saturday's 48-21 win against Akron at Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

[Property of CM Life]

CMU Soccer v. University of Detroit Mercy

I was finally able to shoot soccer last Friday. Considering I played for most of my life,

it was no surprise that I loved every second. For the first time, I had an overwhelming urge

to drop my camera. I would have done anything to have been on the field with

a pair of cleats and maybe even an old pair of goalie gloves.

[Property of CM Life]

Boardwalk

There is no doubt in my mind that Clam Pass Beach Park in Naples,

Florida is one of the most beautiful places in the country. In the morning, my father

would disappear down the beach for hours; however, this was the first time

we visited in the evening. Unfortunately, we missed the actual sunset.

Tubing on Hess Lake

This weekend marked my first tubing experience. These two, Mandy and Meghan, went out on Hess Lake first. 

We initially thought they were trying to be funny with the ridiculous expressions they were making. 

It turned out they were all legitimate faces. I believe Meghan is shown yelling to slow down for the next round.

The best part? ...During their ride, we were going maybe 10 mph.

Columbus Zoo

"Unless we work together to change attitudes at all levels- 

from world leaders to the consumers of illegal bushmeat- there will be no viable populations

of great apes in the wild within 50 years."

-Jane Goodall, 1998

Franklin Park Conservatory

While in Columbus this past week, my family brought me to the Franklin Park Conservatory. 

Work was on display by artist Dale Chihuly, an artist who could inspire anyone to appreciate art.

Wedding

I helped shoot my first wedding on the Fourth of July. Cristina and James, the newlyweds, 

had a beautiful ceremony and reception in Dearborn. The blue sky barely peeked out, 

but according to the bride, it was "better for pictures anyways because the sun wouldn't be in everyone's eyes."