Bobby Darin


"Passion" (The Croc Hunter with daughter, Bindi)



Marilyn Monroe


Dr. House



Clay Aiken



Clay Aiken (new look)

In today's fast-paced world of technology and micromanagement, I often find myself longing for a simpler time - a time rich in community and pride. Inspired by old photographs, my Nostalgia Series showcases the warmth and charm of days gone by. Many are rendered in a colorizing technique which I've developed to add to the vintage flavor of each piece.

Living The Dream



Old Friends



Friendship



Sun Bathers



Cucumber Harvest



Integrity

Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) is a rare, genetic bone disease which causes bone cells to form in connective tissues (such as ligaments, tendons and muscle), thus growing a second skeleton and confining the afflicted in a rigid and painful prison. FOP afflicts only 1 in 2,000,000 people and is often misdiagnosed.

Jasmin's Own Words

"I always keep up hope that they will find a cure for FOP....

I got diagnosed with a rare bone disease at age 5 ½ named Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva. FOP affects only one in two million people. It causes extra bone to form in places it shouldn't (ex: the back, arms, legs, etc. For more info: www.ifopa.org). There is also more info on my website.

I am just like any other 13-year-old girl except with special needs. I sometimes use wheelchairs when my legs are bothering me or when I am tired. I mainly use them at school fieldtrips. I can only reach my arms up to table height. I have a lot of pain at times and it is a true miracle when I don't. I sometimes am unable to attend school. I always keep up hope that they will find a cure for FOP. I can no longer bend down to touch my toes. I need to ask my mother or an adult to itch my neck and back and other hard to reach spots since I am unable to do that without some help.

I am a very spunky understanding person and I just know that all the prayers said to God for a cure will just be answered someday.

Sometimes I get mad at Him and ask, "Why me?" Sometimes I have even stated to Him, "Why does everything bad happen to me?" I still find myself mad but now I know that hope and not giving up makes a HUGE difference in the world. I am very truly glad I am alive and I am very happy to be me!"

To learn more about FOP, please visit the International Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva Association at www.ifopa.org or Jasmin's website at www.JasminAriel.com.