Sisterly Love Defies Stereotypes

From the outside, Louise's life might seem filled with challenges: her daughter Alisa has Down syndrome, and her other daughter, Carly, started suffering from neurological issues at age 21 and now relies on a wheelchair, needing intensive care. Both daughters live with their mom.

But sadness is not what distant cousin Lani Holmberg found when she set out to photograph the family for a unique project. "I was looking for a photo project that challenges stereotypes and inspires empathy," writes Holmberg. "My aunt suggested I reach out to her cousin, Louise."

Alisa, who has Down syndrome, stands behind her paralyzed sister Carly (Photo: Lani Holmberg)

Holmberg's project unveiled a series of surprises, such as the fact that the young woman with Down syndrome is a dedicated caregiver to her paralyzed sister. While their mother Louise works to support the family, most days the responsibility of caring for Carly falls on Alisa, who does so with love and joy. "She even insists Carly chew her food thoroughly and make efforts to communicate," Holmberg documents.

For six months, Holmberg followed the family, camera in hand, noting that it is "a happy home, full of laughter and joy," despite Louise's concern for her daughters' futures. Holmberg titled the project: "There Are Tulips in Holland."

Alisa helps Carly move to bed (Photo: Lani Holmberg)

"The truth is, I didn't fully appreciate Alisa's abilities," Holmberg writes. "When I told her that, she simply said: 'I understand what you're saying and I know people look at those with Down syndrome differently, but I'm a real person with real feelings.'" Contrary to stereotype, Alisa isn't constantly cheerful for no reason: Holmberg captured her nostalgically speaking about her older sister living in Britain and reflecting sorrowfully about her best friend who died of cardiac arrest a year ago. Yet despite everything, Alisa loves her life most of the time. "I love my life because it has wonderful people, people I love dearly," says the 30-year-old, who spends most of her time caring for her disabled sister. "And that, apparently, is all I need."