There have been many things I have had to overcome in my life that are just part of having Down Syndrome. I was born with holes in my heart and a cleft in my mitral valve. I had to have open heart surgery. I have a severe stutter and get really frustrated. Sometimes I will just write down what I am saying because I am tired of trying to get it out. I have always been independent so not being able to find my words is very irritating. I have always loved art. I took art classes at Opelika High School, when I was in high school. I guess you could say I was born an artist just like I was born with Down Syndrome. Appreciating art has helped me enjoy taking photos since I have been at BCPP.