Therapeutic Photography
On Angels’ Wings, a non-profit organization, provides free, professional photographs and support for children battling a terminal diagnosis or condition that puts them at risk. Services are provided from maternity to 18 years and include children with heart conditions, cancer, genetic disorders, chromosomal defects, extended NICU stays and even loss at birth.
Since it’s inception in June of 2013, On Angels’ Wings (OAW) has provided over 250 families with priceless memories, with each year doubling the previous year. Currently, services are predominantly provided in Springfield and St. Louis, Missouri, but OAW also has photographers in Joplin, Kansas City, Rolla, Columbia and other rural towns in southern Missouri.
Overall, our mission and priority will always be: Celebrating life. Encouraging hope.
You’ll find more details on the types of photography sessions we provide below:
Types Of Sessions:
Families that face an in-utero diagnosis of a genetic disorder or medical condition that puts their unborn child at risk may request maternity pictures from On Angels’ Wings. The ideal time to do maternity pictures is between the 32nd and 36th week of pregnancy, but that will obviously vary depending on individual circumstances. In most cases, proof of in-utero diagnosis is required to schedule a maternity session with OAW (often provided because the doctor’s office connects us or the paperwork provided from the doctor’s office following a routine visit).
We offer urgent/immediate photography services in the hospital when the child is at increased risk due to complications, or upon loss. Image requests under these circumstances typically come through hospital staff. Parents or family members should inform their nurse of a desire to use OAW services as soon as possible.
OAW recognizes that some children have a long-term journey ahead of them as they fight. That is why we offer families more than one session under these circumstances. Children with heart conditions, genetic disorders and the like qualify for these periodic follow-up sessions. Additionally, children born at 32 weeks gestation who will have an extended stay in the NICU qualify for pictures upon birth, during their NICU stay, and a celebration session when they get to go home.
OAW understands that many conditions limit a child’s exposure to others and an in-home, lifestyle session is the best option. Our photographers have the technical and photographic experience to make this possible, capturing cherished moments of your family together. It’s simply a matter of scheduling a time that works best for the recipient family and the assigned photographer.
In cases of excellent weather and a child whose condition allows for being outdoors, our volunteer photographers are happy to offer outdoor sessions. These sessions are best executed in the early morning hours or 1-2 hours before sunset for optimal lighting conditions. The recipient and assigned photographer can collaborate on the preferred location.
A rainbow baby is a child born after the loss of a child – the rainbow in the midst of the storm. Exclusive to families who received OAW services when their child passed, we offer free maternity and newborn pictures for their first rainbow baby.
Grief Recovery Services
Grief is a complex journey, and at On Angels’ Wings, we provide certified grief recovery services based on The Grief Recovery Method. These services are available to our recipient families and the broader community, offering support for various forms of loss, including:
- One-on-One Sessions: Personalized sessions conducted in-person or virtually via Zoom.
- Group Sessions: Supportive group settings facilitated by trained specialists, fostering a community of shared experiences and healing.
- Specialized Programs: Tailored programs addressing specific needs such as helping children cope with loss and ongoing grief groups.
How It Works
Qualification and Process
To qualify for our services, a child must have a condition that significantly impacts their health and requires ongoing medical care or be part of a family coping with the loss of a child at birth. Our sessions are provided free of charge and are available in the following locations:
- Missouri: Serving various cities including Springfield, St. Louis, Kansas City, Joplin, Rolla, Columbia/Jefferson City, and Cape Girardeau.
- Oklahoma: Oklahoma City and Grove.
- Minnesota: Minneapolis (launching in 2023).
Arranging Sessions
- Hospital Settings: Inform your nurse of your interest in our services during hospital stays for delivery or NICU care.
- Advance Booking: For planned sessions outdoors, in a studio, or at home, fill out our Session Request Form on the website to schedule a session.
- Session Details: Once matched with a photographer, finalize session details such as time and location directly with them.
Delivery of Photos
After each session, photos are edited and uploaded to a secure online gallery within three weeks. Galleries remain accessible indefinitely, ensuring families can revisit and download their cherished memories whenever needed.
Get Involved
Your support can make a profound difference in the lives of families facing unimaginable circumstances. Learn how you can volunteer, donate, or participate in our programs to provide comfort and hope to those in need.