Renee Bergeron started the project in 2012 by taking pictures of her son, Apollo, who was born with a double aortic arch. In 2012 he had two heart surgeries and a feeding tube placed. She wanted him to view himself as powerful and strong, not as a victim of his unique heart.

Renee is also a professional photographer and when she saw how much he loved the images, she decided to offer these session to other kids with special needs. Here are a few from the photo series…

Renee’s son Apollo was born with a double aortic arch, but she wanted him to see that his illness didn’t define him through a special project that is nothing short of extraordinary.

Super Cody is Ready to Take on the World!

Cody’s mom loved his photos and said this: “Cody seems to me always just on the verge of new ability. Just about to take off running, counting, talking. When I get discouraged I look at these photos and remember there are no limits on him.”

Cody Bear

“I hope someday when he gets older he can look at those photos and see what I see. A priceless gift and a precious super hero about to take on the world.” -Cody’s Mom.

Apollo, My Inspiration For The Superhero Project

I want Apollo to see himself as strong and powerful. I hope he never feels the need to be self-conscious about his scars or feeding tube.

Apollo

Melanie

Melanie is a bright and energetic 4 year old, who wakes up every day smiling. Melanie has a diagnosis of autism, as well as epilepsy and sensory processing disorder. Even though these conditions make things a lot harder, Melanie has shown nothing but happiness and perseverance.

Mila And Her Brother

Mila and her protective brother. Nothing can stop these two.

Mila

Mila is a beautiful girl with apraxia of speech. She may not have many words, but her face says it all!

Avery

“The photos are my favorite of her, and capture her spirit in a way nothing else does. The Superhero Project was a chance to celebrate both, who and what Avery is, as well as who she is not. She is not defined by her delays, but is a child who laughs easily, loves quickly, forgives often, and gives her family and friends a profound change of perspective on what we value in life. Her spirit was genuinely captured for the world to celebrate with us.” -Avery’s Mom.

Smiling, Happy, Avery

Victoria

“In these pictures I see my beautifully made child. I celebrate her limb length discrepancy. I’m proud of how strong she is. These photos capture all of that and more. I treasure these photos and couldn’t be more grateful for them.” -Victoria’s Mom.

Victoria’s Lifts

Victoria was born with Congenital Femoral Deficiency. This means the femur in one leg is shorter than it should be. She is a beautiful, shining girl who will undergo a series of operations to lengthen her leg as she grows.