I was born on 23 July 1960. My disabilities (Phocomelia major; gross shortening of the forelimbs, hearing and mobility impairment, congenital cardiac disease) are a result of Thalidomide. Consequently, I use my feet and my mouth for all activities of daily living.

I have 2 brothers and 2 sisters and I’m the middle child. As a child I spent a long time in hospital and didn’t play sports like my siblings. When I was 11 years old my parents bought me a set of oil paints. I am still thoroughly enjoying painting, the mediums I use are Acrylics and Oils. My mother can be credited with teaching me to paint and value all artistic styles.

I attended schools for children with disabilities and at aged 8 years transferred to mainstream school. At school I wasn’t allowed to use my feet, so I did not have the opportunity pursue art studies. I finished school and gained employment in the Commonwealth Australian Public Service, I retired on health grounds in 1997.

I have a son who was born in 1997. I have always felt that painting is my way of channelling my creative energy and art can be an expression of the challenges people with disabilities are faced with daily. Painting is a positive influence in my life. Whilst my disabilities present many challenges it does not deter me from achieving my goals.