During our childhood, my sisters and I cherished annual summer visits to our Italian family, but as the years passed, these trips became less frequent. Each journey was a heartfelt attempt to preserve the cherished memories of a place that felt like a second home, despite the physical distance. In 2022, after COVID-19 restrictions eased, I finally returned to Trofarello after six years. This visit stirred deep emotions, compelling me to photograph my Nonna, who has Alzheimer’s. I also grappled with the complex feelings of being back after losing my Nonno during COVID-19 in 2020. This profound loss and the inability to say goodbye left a void in our hearts.
When I returned, it was heartbreaking to see my Nonna not completely recognize us. However, we could still feel her love. She knew we were family. I found joy in these little moments with her walking around the courtyard and eating grapes off the vines. Little did I know when I returned again in 2024, this photograph would be one of the last photos I took of her walking and still full of life.
I think this quote beautifully says that we should always try. Because we will never know the outcome if we don't. So ultimately if we don't try, we fail.
