Overcoming my struggles through Lego creativity
I began building Lego kits with my therapist as an occupational therapy exercise. When I was 3 years old, I was diagnosed with Arteriovenous Malformation of the brain, AVM. During my childhood and teenage years, I spent a lot of time in the hospital and underwent numerous surgeries, procedures, and Gamma Knife Radiation treatments. As a result of the AVM, I lost the use of my dominant right hand. I had to learn how to use my left hand to write, build strength with my right hand, and incorporate this into my day-to-day. Therapy was strenuous and I didn't like doing the exercises. However, I didn't realize that building Lego set were exercise or therapy, but fun.
I received a Lego set from everyone. Birthday and holiday gifts equal Lego. Money earned from chores and allowance, I saved to buy more Lego. As I got older, my collection grew with me. I started making custom Lego sets for everyone. My hobby became my inspiration to start my Etsy shop. Lego keeps me busy and motivated. People in my neighborhood call me “Lego Chief'' because I'm always very creative. I go to garage sales and ask, "Do you have any Legos that you don’t need anymore?” Most of the time, people just give me their Lego pieces because they're tired of Lego in their homes. Other times, parents are just tired of stepping on them. I also enjoy painting, drawing, and many other crafts but Lego seems to be my number one passion.
