Thanks to a partnership with the MISS Foundation, donors to Touching Souls may receive a tax-deduction for their contribution.
The M.I.S.S. Foundation is a non-profit 501c3 international organization committed to providing crisis support and long-term aid to families after the death of a child from any cause.
Make a tax-deductible contribution now to support families throughout Chicagoland or email funding@toddhochberg.com for more information.
November, 2008
The end of the year is for many a time of reflection, a time to remember what we have gained and what we have lost during the preceding year. Unfortunately, at this time and throughout the year, families experience the death of a baby or young child and suffer the ongoing loss that accompanies death. Through Touching Souls Bereavement Photography, my work continues with these families. The economic downturn is affecting all of us; yet the families I meet struggle additionally with the loss of something invaluable, a precious life. They are overwhelmed by a sorrow few of us can begin to imagine. Please keep them in your hearts and minds in this season of good will, and consider contributing to Touching Souls’ Annual appeal. Help to support work that eases the path ahead for these families.
In the last week I have had the honor of joining five families during a most difficult and private time—the death of their baby or child. When making photographs for parents, I strive to capture the beauty and grace in their child and to elucidate the caring, loving energy present in the room. The photographs share a 'legacy' not only of these precious lives but of the enduring relationships in which they are held. The images help parents find the treasure in their adversity. If you are in a position to make a charitable donation, please consider helping support the work that benefits these families. The smallest of gifts will make a huge difference in the lives of a grieving family.
The success of this program relies entirely on donations and gifts from individuals and organizations. Donated dollars to the fund I manage in partnership with the MISS Foundation are used exclusively to support direct expenses for the photographs and services I provide bereaved families.
A donation of $750 provides one family in need; the photography session, the album of photographs and a followup support meeting where the photographs are presented. Any donation amount large or small is welcome. All donations are tax-deductible.
I invite you to read these words from grateful families.
"[When Todd offered] to come and take pictures of our baby Ava Lynn at the hospital… I had very little clue how precious and healing those photos would become... I was barely aware of Todd's soft unobtrusive presence as he photographed our family… I wept and gasped at their [the photographs] beauty. I am looking at one of Ava's pictures right now on my desk. I am reminded of my love for her, her softness, her innocence, our loss, yet our hope, and her sweet memory. She will never be forgotten... I know many of you have been touched by his work as well. I ask that you please consider sending a donation." Sincerely, Ava Lynn’s Mom
"Our little Erin was born at 5:23 am. She was born in the presence of people who loved her like no other… Little Erin passed at 5:27 am. After that time, she was dressed in a white dress with a bow in front, wrapped in a pink blanket and the cutest little hat was placed on her head. ...she was beautiful. Oh, to be given the chance to hold her and talk to her. She was surrounded by family. We all stayed for hours just passing her from one to the other. A photographer was there taking black and white photos the whole time. He was such a warm, gentle soul, his name is Todd. …taking pictures of us holding her and being with her. He does all of this voluntarily. I've never had more respect for anyone in my entire life. What a gift he was, this stranger, amongst us." Erin's Grandma
"This has been the "HARDEST" thing I have ever done in my life but this experience has put me in contact with many people whom I consider angels on earth. You have brought happy tears to our eyes and captured a beautiful life on film. …your pictures remain a constant comfort at times of great sadness. You captured the worst moments of my life in an overwhelmingly beautiful way." Aubrey’s Mom
"Thank you again for the beautiful pictures of Keenan. They have been instrumental in our healing process. Before we got your pictures I often said to Ben that I wished I could hold Keenan one more time or give her one more kiss. After looking through the pictures several times I realized there are 5 pictures of me kissing her and countless others of me stroking her face or contemplating her little hands or her feet. The pangs of guilt and sadness at the thought that I didn't kiss her enough have passed. We are slowly moving forward; each day is a little easier. Thankfully, we spend more time floating along in the sunshine than fighting against the weight of the waves of grief. When the grief comes, we are not pulled down quite so deep or for as long. Words really cannot express our gratitude. Thank you for all that you do and know that your work is a huge blessing to many." Keenan’s Mom and Dad
Thanks to a partnership with the MISS Foundation, donors to Touching Souls may receive a tax-deduction for their contribution.Make a tax-deductible contribution now to support families throughout Chicagoland or email funding@toddhochberg.com for more information.