Serendipity may best describe my discovery of ecollage®, as it was a kind of a happy accident. My expectations were high for a full recovery from a work-related solvent exposure but literally became more of a nightmare. The school where I taught Montessori was conducting renovation during school hours, and I became very ill. After recovering from the chemical pneumonia it caused, I thought all would be well. What I later learned was that I had been permanently sensitized to a wide range of chemicals, including ones not even present in the original injury. To give the reader an idea of what this means: Hydrocarbons, produced by all petroleum derivatives such as plastic, pesticides, fragrance or combustion emissions like car exhaust and smoke (to name a few) will exacerbate it. A person with this disability reacts adversely to extremely low levels of these chemicals present in the environment, [in the parts per billion (ppb) range] and avoidance can be as daunting as it is necessary. It became imperative to judiciously avoid as much exposure as one can (albeit ubiquitous in the modern world) in order to regain a mere semblance of my former good health. This is often the case history of a chemical injury like mine. Not every individual develops toxic encephalopathy, but most will develop a cluster of health challenges similar to individuals exposed to Agent Orange. Most have heard of Gulf War Syndrome. It can be somewhat confusing, but what it means is pretty much all of us that have had a chemical injury are in the exact same boat. Little did I know at the time it would forever change my life.

What it meant for me was adopting a more solitary lifestyle, to minimize exposure and adverse health consequences. This incidentally led to my discovery of collage. I was no longer able to work a conventional job, but found a way to be productive again through my art. I’ve spent just a part of my life with a disability but have always been regarded as different. What may seem unusual is that I never felt being different was anything but a good thing. The most difficult setback for me came when I lost a very special companion, a dog who performed much like a Service Dog would. I relied very heavily on her, and was not well equipped when her sudden departure came. This dog quite literally saved my life. Since Mica left, I have donated my time and proceeds from ecollage® Art to Mica's Fund, in hopes of finding a cure for IMHA. This disease is a killer, and to say it is like the roller coaster ride through Hell is not even coming close.

Mica was keenly instrumental in helping me discover a way to cope with my disability. It was her loss that motivated me to use what I do to help others.

In this way I feel I honor her memory.
 
Ecollage® art is best described by others, as I am not a writer. I do 'papier colle' (collage) most often. My work comes from real life, and usually one-of-a-kind, but I sometimes revisit collages. An example might be the dragonflies, which make up the "Cupid" series. I was once asked to submit work to a recycled paper company's catalog for their consideration. I created the first in the dragonfly series ‘Last Touched by Cupid’ solely from their own recycled rags odd numbered pages. I liked finding a completely different use for the paper they promoted. Their rejection stated that the elements utilized were incompatible with their vision. I found it hilarious yet odd. Even they did not recognize their own work. I guess it is what I do when I hear the word No. I’ve since retired from Etsy, but I consider commissions now and then. I added a line of wearable art in natural fibers (knitting). Due to my health challenges I only work with organic materials.
 
Ecollage® art benefits Mica's IMHA Research Fund, with 100% of all proceeds assigned to fund veterinary research according to Mica's IMHA Research Fund Mission Statement.
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Our Angel marks her 12th Anniversary with HEAVENLY WINGS on 18 August 2018, and still we have no cure. Each time I adjust these dates, I get a little more sad, and revising it takes a lot out of me. Mica & Mirra have helped me raise multiple thousands of dollars on behalf of OTHERS who are LITERALLY DYING ‘FUR’ a CURE. We often are contacted by owners of pets in an IMHA or IMT crisis. We may hold a paw and try to help, but what makes what we do most rewarding is to receive word that Mica & Mirra helped to save a life because of their advocacy. Yet we cannot do it alone, so we ask for your help.

I feel blessed to have Mirra for companionship, but it is sacrificing time we could have together- because we fight this fight sometimes makes it hard to do so. I believe MIca deserved better, but so does Mirra. I know other people who share their lives with dogs or cats knows just how much they enrich them.

We volunteer our time and my art to operate Mica's site on a free server, because what we bring in goes to the research itself. Please join Mica's Team and help us see Angel Mica’s wish come true.

Below is a sampling of my work. please note : I'm reminded it needs serious updating. Although health is no excuse, it does interfere.

REVIEWS:

This is an absolutely lovely cap. The colors are rich and beautiful. The shape is very attractive, and it comes down over the ears just the right amount. The wool is soft but sturdy. It is a good thick well-knit hat. I am thrilled with this purchase. I rate it positive +++ !
-T. Lewis, Selah WA

Hi- I just got the box-everything is absolutely beautiful! I don't know how you do it! Thanks thanks thanks!
-Michaelene, Glenview, IL

Fantastic selection! Love the minis-they are perfect as gift cards! 
-viszlasrgreat, Seattle, WA

As a fellow Belgian owner, I know how hard it is to capture their expressions sometimes. Not only does Mel *get it* about Belgians, she has a unique ability to also understand her customer. Dragonflies hold a special memory for me. This card is so beautiful I may keep it and frame it for myself. Or just wait until the right moment comes to give it to someone. This is going to make a fantastic Howlllloween card! The quality is amazing.
-Girltruheart,  Parsippany, NJ

Great cause and beautiful artwork. Unique and beautiful work. we'll be shopping again. :))))))-M.Hartley and Daisy Mae, Seattle, WA

You must be sky-high after receiving Mel’s note. He’s absolutely right; you work needs--and deserves--to “be seen by appreciative eyes” (what a lovely turn of phrase that is). You should feel energized. The Muse has blessed you, and her blessings are not in vain. She has found an incredibly gifted and passionate vessel into which to pour her inspiration. The sacredness of which is influenced and coloured by the touch of Angel Mica’s wings. I am overcome with joy for you and honestly cannot see to type for happy tears.
-Kymberlee and Angus The Warrior, Seattle, WA

It was like Christmas, the anticipation of beauty to come before opening each one from its envelope and of course I was blown away. I couldn't have been happier. They are so brilliant in color and rich in texture, very nice quality! They are definitely art and should be sold and presented that way.... I have to say, the website is great, but it doesn't do the art the justice they deserve - these are so beautiful and they need to be seen in person to fully appreciate them.... They are definitely too special to stay holed up in those envelopes - they need to be seen by appreciative eyes.
-Mel, San Francisco, CA

Friendly seller and unique artwork. Cards were on good stock with colorful and unusual designs. Also, the little gift cards this seller offers are intricately cut out by hand and quite amazing!
-Anthrocoris, Selah WA

The gift cards are so unique & beautiful. I can't wait to use them. They were obviously made with love and they are truly one of a kind. They arrived shortly after being ordered and in perfect condition. I look forward to shopping with EcollageArt again. Sincerely, 
-Teresa H., Rapid City S.D.

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