My favorite thing about being a photojournalist is meeting and spending time with people, and forming relationships with subjects who I connect with. And a few days ago I met someone who I hope to spend more time with over the next several months.

Kendall Bayne is preparing to fight stage-four adrenal cortical carcinoma: a rare form of cancer that has spread to her lungs.

The community is rallying around Kendall, which is keeping her spirits up.  And she has a positive attitude and a smile that lights up a room.

Here’s a photo of Kendall and her dad, Jere.

Kendall Bayne, 15, hugs her dad, Jere, at their home in Roanoke County on a Wednesday evening after school. All members of the family, along with many members of the community, wear white on Wednesdays to support Bayne, who has been diagnosed with stage-four lung cancer.

Rebecca Barnett