Caring for Zora: a lesson on how to Play

A CLOSER look at the relationship between a child and her caretaker. A child and her first friend. Documenting these moments helps to challenge stereotypes surrounding disabilities, and demonstrates that a life with disability is not defined by sorrow.

This project aims to highlight the joy and playfulness in the life of Zora, a two year old girl living with LMNA. LMNA is a rare muscle disorder which limits her mobility and leaves her health at risk. As Zora’s caretaker, I want to show you what I see. A child with the right to every opportunity to Play, just as children should. 

Caring for Zora is an intimate documentation of a child and her caretaker. A child and her first friend. Documenting these moments helps to challenge stereotypes surrounding disabilities, and demonstrates that a life with disability is not defined by sorrow or limitations. 

Central to the project is the concept of agency for Zora. Despite her limited mobility, the project seeks to empower Zora by giving her control of the way in which she is represented. By gving Zora the shutter release she was allowed to take her own self portraits; therefore, she chooses the moment in which the photograph is made. 

It felt important for the work to be a true collaboration. This also meant that it has gone at Zora’s pace. When she felt comfortable enough around the camera, we began to shoot. Caring for Zora has been made with her, and for her.

My job is much more than a job. It is love, care, frustration, friendship, fear, teaching and learning; it is a sense of family.

This project is ongoing. Including unfinished objects, and audio video.