Candles Out of Reach is a photography series that explores the intersection of childhood milestones and the harsh reality of chronic illness. Set against the backdrop of common birthday symbols, such as gifts, cake, and balloons, the series juxtaposes these moments of celebration with items that represent pain and struggle, such as band-aids, gauze, and medication. Through this contrast, the series reflects the sense of loss and disconnection I experienced as my health deteriorated right before my 16th birthday, capturing the emotional distance between youthful expectations and the realities of living with illness.