For two years I've been a partner artist with Michele through the Art of Recovery, a program sponsored by Seacoast Mental Health Center (SMHC) and the New Hampshire Art Association (NHAA). The event raised more than $22K in its first two years - now hoping to add to that number this week at the third annual event.

My partner, Michele, triumphs through accident-related brain injuries. She is one of the strongest women I've ever met and a fierce advocate for her young daughter. As a single mom, her days are long and devoted to her child and her work, but she has found peace and tranquility in art.

We've worked together since early 2015, but this year I have become mainly Michele's cheering squad and biggest fan of her artwork. Ideally, the program calls for us to meet and create artwork together, but too much got in our way towards that effort in these last few months. Still, Michele produced more art than was requested for the auction. She's a prolific and wonderful artist! Often, I'd receive a text and photos of her work - I can only sit back and applaud, amazed at what she accomplishes when taken altogether.

We've made a connection beyond the AOR organization. Once my knee replacement allows, we have much to look forward to this summer. Meditation classes, photo sessions at local horse farms.....or just catching up before the next year's event kick-off. Here's looking to the future and more art time together, Michele!

For more information about AOR or to become a corporate sponsor, visit www.artofrecoverynh.org

Michele's display of watercolor paintings at last year's AOR silent auction event.