Support Recovery and Art Dreams Amid Health Setbacks

Hey everyone!

Here's my little tale of hardship and hope....

In early April 2024, I developed a serious infection, phlebitis, and hematoma in my left leg following a stab phlebectomy and RFA procedure. I ended up being off of work for a month longer than expected, which caused some challenges, as you might imagine. During that time, it was discovered that I had a Hernia. That surgery is scheduled for this coming September, giving me a little time to recover from the last setback and prepare for the next one.... Or so I thought! Over 4th of July weekend, I missed the bottom step of the basement stairs, fracturing my right toe and foot. Thanks to my swan-like grace, I have been off of work ever since! The physical and financial setbacks have been a real challenge!

That's the hardship part...Now for the hope!

Feeling down and depressed isn't going to solve anything, and I know there are many others that have it much tougher than I do. God has always looked out for me, and has blessed me with the best wife and kids I could ever wish for, who help me get through everyday. Maybe I was meant to slow down, maybe I was meant to focus on other things...

So... what better time to focus on my dream of becoming an artist?!

Thanks in no small way to the support and encouragement of my wife, not only my passion for painting, but my confidence as an artist continues to grow. It's been difficult to find the time to work on my art, but lately I've had some extra time on my hands! Painting has been really good for the soul!

While thinking of ways I could share my art and thank my donors, inspiration struck in the form of Jean-Michel Basquiat! In the late 1970s, the ground-breaking artist first sold his art on the streets of New York City, in the form of postcards. Postcards!! What an awesome way to share art and reach out to those you care about! I think there is something very special and meaningful about a handwritten message, especially these days, when you can just send a text or an email.

I've decided to use 10 of my paintings to print 10 different postcards!

-For donations of 30.00, I will send you 5 postcards

-For donations of 50.00, I will send you all 10 postcards

-For donations of 300.00 or greater, I'm willing to part with 1 of my original paintings used for the post cards (painting sizes vary, first come first serve!) plus all 10 postcards.

I plan to send out these donation rewards mid to late August. I will keep everyone updated! Donations will be used to purchase art supplies, print postcards, offset medical expenses and loss of income. Thank you so much for taking the time to hear my little story, I hope to share lots of art! Thank you!