Click a photo set to see slideshow:
Nani
 While I was doing the groundwork for a commissioned documentary project in Cuba, I met Adelaida Fernandez de Juan, a physician and award winning Cuban writer called “Laidi” by her friends
Laidi and I talked about my physical disability, and how my photography projects often involve people who are also physically challenged. She told me about one of her patients, a 9-yr-old girl named Nani, who was born with Spina Bifuda, and was unable to walk. Through Laidi, I was able to meet Nani and her family.
When you’re in her presence, you forget that Nani is disabled. She can’t walk, yet she seems to fly everywhere, illuminating her surroundings with her beauty, her charm, and her captivating smile. She is a wonderful role model for children who are disabled.
Projimo Project
 The Projimo Project is a community-based rehabilitation and education center located in Sinaloa, Mexico, about a 2-hour drive northeast of Mazatlan. The project is unique because it is owned and operated by people who are themselves challenged by disabilities. Patients often travel hundreds of miles to have orthotics and other appliances made by staff members who wear orthotics themselves.
Projimo also houses a physical therapy clinic, utilized by children and adults. They also provide medical supplies to a young man, challenged by hemophilia, who lives nearby.
I created these images for The HealthWrights Foundation in December 2005.
Janet Reed and Dancers
Janet Reed and Dancers, a Buffalo, NY based dance company, performs in a contemporary African style, featuring a repertoire of over 40 works created by artistic director Janet Reed. The Company has performed at prominent cultural events, as well as art centers and festivals.
Ms. Reed is an Assistant Professor at Buffalo State College, and an Associate Director of The Buffalo City Ballet Company. She has won several awards for her choreography, and has performed solos for The International American Choreographers Showcase in Holland, Germany, Scotland, and France.
Janet's style is a blend of ballet, modern, and jazz techniques intertwined with traditional African motifs.
The Company members are Annette Alston, Daniela Cosmano, Lakeisha Flood, Natasha Perkins, Maria Provenzano, Leanne Rinelli, Nina Sanders, Julie Snyder, and Janet Reed.
|
