My youngest son, Carl, was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita or contractures of multiple joints. All joints except for his spine are rigid to some degree, and some muscles such as biceps are absent or non-functional.

This is NOT a description of Carl. He is a web designer for an advertising agency and loves his work. His talent for drawing is one of his gifts. Relating to people in an easy and forthright way is another; being self-motivated and determined are others.

To Carl

Were I ever to be an artist
(Like you) I would step across
Landscapes for the far countries
Seen through others’ eyes,
Known in their smile or somber
Gazes or tautness of skin on bone
All of my studies would be portraits,
All of my journeys would be of the spirit,
If I were an artist like you.

– Mary Avidano, aka Mom