I studied art at the University of West Ga. While raising my daughter and working full time. I was never able to finish my degree. So close and yet so far…..
LOL After the on set of and undiagnosed illness in 2009, life has thrown me a few curves my illness runs it’s course and I have learned to ride the waves after all I have my devices, canes, walkers and wheelchair oh my. I savor each day that I don’t need there assistance, but they are never far from reach. I found myself unable to work traditionally, never being able to count on my body and mind doing what I ask of them.
My supportive husband has always called me an Artist, and I liked that but never dreamed of actually leaving corporate America to pursue my dreams. Now thanks to my illness, it seams they pursue me. I am able to work at home at whatever pace my body allows, and teach polymer clay at our local hobby lobby, in my home studio and through polymer clay guilds. I am blessed to be giving this chance to live my life and follow the dreams I have always had.
I studied many different mediums but sculpting is by far my favorite. I love all things creative and colorful. I especially enjoy art that is functional and can’t seem to touch anything and not add my own flavor. Now that I have a firmer grip on the art of working with polymer clay I push forward hoping to find my own voice in this medium and our world.
I hope to, add a smile to your days, share blessings life has to offer lessons I have learned and most of all hope to inspire you to join me in finding your own voice.
other sites
Artfire, Pintrest, Facebook , Etsy
Hi Linda, my name is Chantale McCleary. I live in Alberta Canada. I just read your story and it is very similar to mine. I have been ill for 20 years since I was 17 years old however it was undiagnosed for all of that 20 years. I had just gone back to school after raising my three beautiful daughters as a single Mom. I was pursuing my dream of helping people as a nurses aide in a very busy trauma 1 hospital. It was so exciting and I loved it until I was finally diagnosed with Lupus and Fibromyalgia and Chronic fatigue syndrome. I had to quit my job and am currently living on Long term disability.
I have found my passion because of my illness though. I love claying I make little fairy houses and neat little beads and figurines. I also paint in acrylics.
Now I find that my disability money does not stretch too far. I am looking to making my own website and tutorials.
I love your site and once I get some money coming in will be purchasing from you for sure.
Thanks for you hard work
Fello clayer
Chantale McCleary
Sorry to hear of your wowes, yes it can be quite difficult. It’s important to retain you hope for healing. We lost everything and had to rebuild, I was not fortunate enought to recieve disability. Seems when you get your 30 days to reply from the goverment they don’t care if your were in the hospital unable to reply. So its a strict deney, no retries. But don’t worry in time you will find your way maybe like me building a new and better path.