‘With Or Without You’: Poignant Photos of a Family Coping In a Time of Crisis

Danny with His Christmas Present

Second Floor

With or Without You is Long Island-based photographer Christian Wilbur‘s chronicle of his handicapped brother’s transition from their family home to a care facility. An older sibling born several weeks premature and diagnosed with cerebral palsy at a very young age, Daniel grew up an ever-crucial and joyful part of the Wilbur family, never allowing his condition to discourage him. Though enjoying a healthy childhood and adolescence dampened by only a few medical crises, Daniel’s health rapidly declined in 2012. From hospital to nursing home, Daniel now lives out his days surrounded by a family acutely aware of the hole he left in the fabric of their daily lives.

The series documents everyday moments and familial spaces that become so poignant in times of crisis. A darkened bedroom door or an unused handicap chair hint at a home suddenly strangely quiet. With or Without You is the heartfelt tale of Daniel and the family trying to hold together the pieces he left behind.

Mom After Her Daily Visit

Three O’clock Sunday Afternoon

Dad’s Recent Crop

Christmas Eve

Danny Wilbur, Honorary Chief

Danny with His Birthday Present

Mom and Dad’s Room

Kelly Resting

Our Backyard Late September

Our Living Room

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