In recent years, life has brought profound challenges. After the pandemic struck, my freelance work dwindled, and I struggled to find purpose as my mother’s health deteriorated. Managing her kidney failure and weakening heart has been overwhelming, and eventually, I became her full-time caretaker.
Since then, I’ve faced countless ER visits, hospital stays, and moments of dread. Though my mother is still with me, the financial strain has been immense. I never anticipated the extent of these challenges; my focus has remained on her comfort and well-being.
Her condition has stabilized somewhat, but meaningful improvement is unlikely for kidney patients. We’ve settled into a fragile routine, yet I often wonder how others manage similar circumstances. I look forward to a time when the weight of her care eases, though I know that continuing may not be possible if her pain becomes too severe. We’ve discussed and documented our plans with Mom and the family, but that’s not the focus of this project.
My life now revolves around caring for my mom—whose health is fragile and whose age continues to advance. Whether she’s at dialysis, resting in her recliner, or asleep with the TV on, I stay within a three-and-a-half-mile radius, ready for whatever might arise.
My project, Three-and-a-Half-Mile Radius, captures the world within this perimeter. Through photography, I find a vital escape from the demands of caregiving—moments of quiet, reflection, and brief relief amid the weight of responsibility.
While celebrating the Year of the Dragon in 2024, I was captivated by the breathtaking spectacle of a lion engaging in a fierce battle with a dragon. In a moment of anticipation, I crouched low, steadied my breath, and captured the awe-inspiring scene at A‘ala Park in Honolulu.
Saturday. February 3. 2024
Us & Them
Typically, I focus on objects, nature, and man-made structures because photographing people can be challenging due to their complexity and tendency to engage. Recently, however, I encountered some striking faces in downtown Honolulu. Their vivid and subtle expressions captivated me, sparking a new curiosity.
