In November of 1995, I suddenly found myself in agonizing pain and had lost the use of my left leg. I was placed in the hospital and scheduled for surgery the next morning. My spine had deteriorated and collapsed. The doctor said that I was so close to severing my spinal cord that I could not even be care flighted to Reno. And so began a very long journey...

My left leg is permanently paralyzed and I am partially paralyzed from the waist down on the right side. I can walk some with the help of a leg brace and crutches. I spend a great deal of my day in my wheel chair. I hope somehow I can get a wheel chair more suited for outdoor use.

When I finally had to deal with the reality of my situation, I began to paint. A lot. It honestly kept me "alive." During the course of my recovery, many many wonderful people gave me support, love and understanding. Two of those people were Senator Harry Reid and his aide, Mr. Lee Currier. Because of these people, I made a commitment to return something to my community.

In November of 1996, Vocational Rehabilitation gave me the wonderful chance of a college education. My goal is to become an Art Therapist. I am currently taking classes in Psychology, Substance Abuse and oil painting. I will enroll in four classes in the Fall.

It is my goal and my biggest wish to start an art program in Fallon for teens and also for anyone who could find art to especially be of therapeutic value. Especially those suffering from depression. I will continue to work on this goal. It's the least that I can do for a community and state that has given so much to me.

Artist statement written by Reno artist, Jenni Harrison.

VSA arts of Nevada Please direct questions and comments about VSA arts of Nevada to info@vsan.reno.nv.us

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