My First Art Show

My first art show was birthed out of supporting a foundation my brother started to find a cure for childhood leukemia. My nephew, Eli Seth Matthews was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in 2007. While he was undergoing treatment for the second time, I decided to sell what artwork I had on hand to contribute to the fight.

I was amazed and delighted from the support I received from my local community! The paintings hung on the wall of a local coffee shop. I sold every piece I wanted to sell and sent 100% of the funds to the foundation.

Eli was thrilled! His heart was full of passion to help other children…and keep them from having to go through what he had to endure.

We lost Eli, January 20, 2011 and heaven gained another angel! We miss him greatly and know he has only gone before us. We will be together again–what a glorious day that will be!

I continue working on paintings and Eli’s courage has given me the drive to complete my children’s book, Happy Heart: Fill’er Up! to help other children know they are loved and have the joy that Eli had in his heart. A portion of my proceeds are given to the Eli Seth Matthews Leukemia Foundation.

My brother and sister-n-law are honoring Eli’s dream to find a cure. The Foundation is going strong with events through out the year to raise support for research. Please visit www.braveeli.com for more information about Eli’s journey, research and/or to know how to get involved.

With much gratitude!

Michelle