First, thank you for taking the time to look at my work and make it this far to find out a little about me. My quest was not to become an artist. My cause in the most plural sense is Parkinson’s disease (PD).

I was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's in 2009 at the age of 46. This admittedly doesn’t by itself make me particularly unique - approximately 5-10 percent of the 1 million diagnosed with PD in the U.S. are below the age of 50. Nor am I alone in my family; my paternal grandfather as well as his brother’s daughter and his sister’s daughter were diagnosed with PD in their 60s and 70s. I also have a first cousin who developed Multiple Sclerosis in her 30s. However, for or each of us our challenges are unique in that the symptoms, effects and responses to treatment are very different.

What is both exceptionally unique, but not without precedent, is that all of the pieces I have created only started after my diagnosis. This spark of creativity has been recognized in a small number of those diagnosed with PD. Prior to this period I had never painted, sculpted or worked in any way along the lines of what I would call art. 

So what does this all mean? My life has most certainly changed. PD affects every day of my life, but with these challenges I see new opportunities. While my path to this new reality may not be common nor ever fully understood, it is this transformation that is part of me, changed me, and inspired me to do more.

To date most of the proceeds I have generated from my work is donated to PD research. I have focused my attention on the Michael J. Fox Foundation for their leadership and commitment to fund research at all levels of understanding and treating PD.

So many that I have spoken with have a family member, a friend or know someone whose life has been altered by PD. If you enjoy my art please check for upcoming events. And even if my style is not yours, please consider supporting the Michael J. Fox Foundation through my efforts on my Team Fox Page. Why through Team Fox? 100% of your contribution goes to research efforts to speed a cure for PD.
Your generosity and joining the team is appreciated.

Michael D. Stevens


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