There are very few people I’m willing to photograph during the week of Christmas vacation. Mike Fueyo is one of them. The last time I saw him, I wasn’t a photographer yet. I didn’t even know my camera had a manual mode! He was one of the founders of the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities (CADD) in Lancaster, PA, and its lead psychiatrist (and my boss), and the most influential leader I have ever had the pleasure of working for. Dr. Fueyo maintains professional boundaries with a kind, graceful approach that shows he has earned his place of prestige in the field while simultaneously making you feel like the most important person in the room. While I worked for him, he made time in his busy schedule for regular mentor sessions, guiding me toward a brighter future. Most days, he ate lunch at the lunch table with the rest of us, getting to know our families, hobbies, and dreams. When he wasn’t there, he modeled healthy coping skills by taking his lunch outside in nature to reflect on a challenging case. He constantly passed on knowledge and wisdom, with a passion for his work and for the people in his life that was second to none. I didn’t think I would ever have a chance to tell him all of these things until a few weeks ago, when he contacted me about an extended family session over the holidays at the suggestion of a mutual friend. He said they would all be gathered from all over the world for a short time to celebrate the holiday season together, five grandchildren and all! I couldn’t turn him down, and I’m glad I didn’t.

The Fueyo family reflects years spent under his influence. With five grandchildren under five, it took calm, positive attitudes from everyone to get those smiles and walk away with all the requested photos. But we did it! Even nature was on our side, with white snow and sparkly icicles outside the living room windows, which spanned the entire space. We certainly had a fun time together with so many giggly cousins, the first time they had all been together.

Mike, I’m honored to have had the opportunity to photograph you and your beautiful crew. I’m also glad to have the chance to say all the things I’ve always wished I’d told you before I left all those years ago. I learned to be a leader by watching you, and those I now lead and mentor within my company and in the wedding industry benefit from that influence years later. The good you spread is felt far and wide. I hope you never lose that kind smile, your passion for those who need help, and the teasing twinkle in your eye.

I hope you enjoy your photos.

Wishing you well,

Megan

P.S. Check your email later today for a surprise!

* Some family members requested privacy. Not everyone is represented in the photos below.