"I never would have thought or even dreamed that the initial painted dress project would be anything but a mess in the corner. Instead, it became a tool that helped me get through the most challenging time in my life and connect with others experiencing the same. A project with a rippling effect that continues to help not only navigate the life of Long COVID, but in reality, life itself. A project not just for me but for everyone living in turbulent and ever-changing times. A project that says, hey, look at what can come out of the ugliness, the hard! An unexpected beauty. It tells a story of hope."