As a photographer, sometimes I am given an opportunity to witness and record moments of great resilience and human spirit. This was the case when I was commissioned to photograph the Hearts for Eternity event hosted by the Heart Research Institute at the Langham Hotel, Sydney in early July. The Institute is dedicated to funding life-saving research into heart health, supporting projects that aim to improve the lives of patients and to advance medical understanding in the field.
The afternoon took the form of a traditional high tea, accompanied by beautiful chamber music. Guests heard from Dr Christopher Stanley, leader of the Microvascular Research Centre, who spoke about his team’s ground-breaking work. Their research investigates the dangerous drop in blood pressure that occurs during septic shock. From the perspective of the patient, Jessica Lines, mother of young Ryan, recounted what her family endured when Ryan’s health was in serious danger, sharing their heartfelt story.
It was a privilege to capture such an important event—one that not only raises awareness and support for vital research but also celebrates the lives touched by the Heart Research Institute’s work.
