Artist Statement

I am a mother whose daughter lived with intractable epilepsy for over 27 years.

Life took a traumatic turn when my daughter, Morgan, experienced her first uncontrollable seizure at school at just 8 years old. A CT scan revealed a large brain tumor, which was resected the very next day. Despite the tumor resection, her seizures never stopped.

November 2025, Morgan had a life-changing surgery and, miraculously, has been seizure-free since.

Throughout these difficult years, I found solace in art, teaching others, creating my own artwork, and finding happiness in the process. Art became both a distraction and a form of healing. 

The number 1:26 holds deep meaning for me. It represents the reality that 1in 26 people will be diagnosed with epilepsy in their lifetime. It reminds me that we are not alone in our journey. While each person’s experience with epilepsy is unique, we are united by strength, resilience, and hope.

Most recently, the Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago chose my artwork for the mural competition, “Power of Community: 1 in 26,” and recreated it as a mural. Two victories occurred so close together – my daughter’s life-changing win over epilepsy and my winning artwork!

Art has always been central to my life. From a young age, I took art lessons and decorated cakes for our family bakeries. Over the years, my creativity evolved into a career in Interior Design-working on projects for McDonald’s, medical facilities, restaurants, and bakeries. I was also fortunate to work alongside Dennis Blair, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, as I dove deep into architecture and design. During that time, I also designed and built our home.

Art