I use my given name of Amelia in my artwork and on this site as a tribute to my maternal Grandmother for whom I was named. She was a breast cancer survivor also. An involuntary pioneer and her challenge greater than mine given the state of medical technology in her time. I too am a breast cancer survivor. My nickname is Amy which means friend. My discovery of a lump in my breast led to a diagnosis of breast cancer in 2003. I began traditional medical treatment. Healing physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually is a journey of change that doesn't happen in one day and seems sometimes to me that I fall more than I walk. Art and yoga are tools I use to help me try and cultivate a better person in myself. Recently I began a style of dance (belly dancing)which is great fun and exercise and another tool for creating a happy state of mind. While undergoing medical treatment at Siteman Cancer Center, I created a series of twelve botanical watercolors paintings entitled The Heart’s Intention in 2004-2005 and "A Bloom of Life" in 2005-2006. Each painting represents a step towards healing. The series were developed with the intention of helping myself and others emotionally and spiritually who might be dealing with something devastating in their life. There is life from the ashes even if you get a little soot on you in the process. Thanks to my family and friends who've been there for me.