- November 1, 2024
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I first met Steven Libby at a football game back in 2014. He was pacing up and down the Flagler Palm Coast sideline, using his customary hand signals and facial expressions to communicate to other photographers and sidelines spectators.
Before we introduced ourselves, Bob Rollins — Steven’s caregiver and shooting mentor of 15 years — warned me that Steven couldn’t speak much or hear at all. So, as we conversed — and ever since — I’ve tried my earnest to understand him. At times I can, but other times I struggle, so I’ll ask him to write his thoughts on his phone.
But, regardless of his physical limited abilities, Steven has demonstrated his love for photography — capturing timeless moments he can share with others. Many fellow photographers can attest to this. They’ve experienced his tap them on the shoulder at an event to show off a great photo he took, followed by a raised hand for a high five.
Well, in the last few months, Steven has been battling cancer. He’s already undergone 13 rounds of radiation and has two more to go. His last several weeks have included radiation treatments five times per week, and his Saturdays all read “TIRED.”
Of course, Steven is supposed to spend the weekend resting after his weeklong treatments, but how could he attend the latest events and seize the best photo?
Since his diagnosis, Steven has shot Daytona’s Rolex 24, 300 and 500 races, among other events. This past weekend he spent another Saturday — his resting day — capturing photos for six hours at Bunnell’s Cracker Day.
“He’s been like a boxer in the ring,” Rollins said. “There’s no quit in my boy. He loves to shoot.”
If you ever find yourself talking with Steven, you may have difficulty understanding all that he’s trying to communicate. But, when it comes to capturing his next best photo — and beating cancer — there is no misunderstanding him. Steven’s determined to be a great photographer, and he won’t allow even cancer to stop him.
Check out Libby Cracker Day photos here: http://www.palmcoastobserver.com/photo-gallery/62nd-annual-cracker-day-draws-4-000
