My journey with autism began when I was diagnosed at the age of three with autism spectrum disorder with Psychomotor Retardation. Growing up with autism has presented me with many challenges. Some of the most difficult times were during my school age years; I was often picked on by other people and made fun of. From these experiences I created My Imagiville. My Imagiville is the home of the bright colorful characters I draw called The Imagifriends. The Imagifriends are a big wonderful happy family who care for and support one another. In Imagiville no one is ever picked on or mistreated in any way. Each Imagifriend has a job to do and they all work together. Some Imagifriends have autism or other disabilities but they are accepted just the way they are. The Imagifriends teach several important lessons. The first lesson is that people with autism are very wonderful, special people who can accomplish their dreams and goals and help make this world a better place. The second lesson is that as long as someone has a good heart it doesn't matter what he or she looks like. I want to use my art to help encourage others who have or know someone who has autism.

There is a great need for acceptance and understanding of autism in our world today and I want to use my art to spread that message! I donate a portion of my proceeds to help others with autism.