After graduating from high school, I bounced from construction to painting to roofing jobs. But in 1988, I enlisted in the Army. After completing Boot Camp, I joined the 25th Infantry in Hawaii, as an M60 assistant gunner. I soon married and planned to use my G.I. Bill to study art. But one Memorial Day, while swimming in the Pacific Ocean, I experienced a serious diving accident. I ended up damaging my spinal cord, which left me a quadriplegic.
After finishing my medical treatment in Hawaii, I spent another year in rehab in Houston. I started drawing as a kid, but in my adult life, my art gave me a purpose, especially after my accident. My injuries left my dominant left hand useless. So, I taught myself to write and paint with my right hand. My greatest accomplishments came after my military career and catastrophic accident: I helped raise two independent daughters, who both graduated from college.
Currently, although I’m in a wheelchair and a single parent, I am also raising a 10-year-old son. I cherish my military experience, and I would strongly urge any young person who needs guidance to consider military service. Even though my military career didn’t go according to my plan, I’m proud to have served my country. I’m equally proud to continue to do my part as an American citizen. God Bless!
Eyes of Courage
The initial outbreak and explosion of COVID-19 in 2020 inspired this portrait series. The three 8 x 10 portraits represent the dedication and service of our front-line workers. The 8 x 10 self-portrait portrays my encouragement, support, and assistance as I have done my part to help our country recover from the current pandemic. Because I am confined to a wheelchair, due to a diving accident after my military service, and I live in a rural area, my main source of art supplies is a Walmart fifteen miles away.
Generally, I draw with simple craft paints and brushes on 8 x 10 sturdy photocopy paper. I also use colored pencils, watercolors, or ink when necessary, and I finish the work with an acrylic sealer. Although I used stock images of healthcare workers for inspiration, each portrait speaks to me in a different way. I select subjects whose eyes tell a story—whether it be exhaustion, bravery, or their commitment to help their fellow man.
Our new type of ArtPrize venue gives veterans a voice as they share their stories of struggle and healing through art.
Eyes of Courage is showcasing at Veterans Memorial Park
A special thanks to Kent County Veterans Services, Zero Day, Finish the Mission, West Michigan Veterans Coalition, Frames Unlimited, and Healing in Arts for making this collaboration of veteran stories possible.
U r badass young nan. Love the paintings
I love you so much thank you so much for your bravery service to our country
You are amazing person with so much courage and a blessing for so many