Dawn Mitchell

I am a 52-year-old woman with Friedreich’s ataxia. In 1998, I became president of Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s Price Edward Island Chapter. I’ve held many positions within the organization, such as Fire Fighter liaison, social planner, and support group facilitator. I’ve also been honoured with the Volunteer of the Year award, at the provincial and national levels.

I call this piece “Deep Shadows”. It was taken in Ontario as we were driving by in a transport truck. I edited it using a water reflection. To me, it represents my hopes and dreams, which now live in the shadows. Driving a truck has always been a dream of mine. While being a passenger was as close as I’ll ever come to driving one of my own, it was the best experience of my life.

I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures, but I became more interested in this medium seven years ago. I take mostly photos of nature and architecture, with bridges and old barns being my favorite.

Every day, the challenges are becoming more difficult as the disease progresses. I now use a power chair and many physical supports. I also have many people who support and help me. I have always been stubborn and have plenty fight in me and that is one thing about me that will never change.

Kiana Bergen

I was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy when I was in Grade 2. I love spending time with my family & friends. I also have a dog, a yorkie named Hazel.

I love being creative in many different forms. I like to write, draw, paint, sing, take photos, do crafts and design, whether it be on my phone creating images or playing design games on my iPad. I enjoy the creating process as much as the final result. I love nature, especially sunsets, water and flowers. It is all so incredible. Incorporating these into art is a wonderful thing.

Being an artist/creative person has brought me joy. It has also helped me find beauty even in the imperfections of my artwork. This piece was inspired by an image I saw on Pinterest. To be honest, the design was a difficult piece to draw. It made me frustrated and I wanted to give up on it, but oddly enough this is the piece that you see. Another thing art has been good for, is learning that difficult things can create something beautiful.