Halina Bojarski
Posted By Craft Corps on June 30, 2009
Halina Bojarski
Name: Halina Bojarski
Age: 52
Location: Bellevue, WA
Profession: Now disabled, Used to work as International Consultant for Export Business Development
Craft(s) of Choice: Jewelry Making, sterling silver, gemstones
It was 7 years ago when I was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and later Rheumatoid Arthritis. The physical
challenges were difficult, and my mental struggle came twofold: first I had my identity tied into being an active part of the working community, a productive contributor, and I had to restructure my self-identity; and second I had no activity that felt like an accomplishment anymore.I decided to take a short class one day just wanting to know how to fix a pair of earrings. It was a wire working class, using sterling silver wire. I fell in love with working with my hands, learning new designs, and creating something wearable from bits and pieces of metal. My husband encouraged me saying it was good therapy for me. I got lots of compliments, but felt genuine appreciation for my work when perfect strangers were interested in buying my work. Now that was validation! I do what I can, when I can. My hands can only work for short periods, but I am so happy when they do.
You, my friend, are an inspiration!
Thanks for sharing your story!
I, too, am disabled (email for details, if desired) and know that the creative process helps us a great deal as we are dealing with health issues….(which are not always easy to share, thanks for sharing)!
OH, what a blessing to have such a stellar husband; he obviously thinks of you 1st!
I’m now off to have a peek at your work!
I’m so happy to read that your creative outlet has helped you not only in creating beautiful items, but feel better about yourself!
WTG!!!!
Hello to Halina ! Wow, you are pretty wonderful ! You are the first person I have written a response to. I am new here and not sure of my way around. Tried to click to see your jewelry but I seem to be doing something wrong.Do me a favor and keep being strong and postive, I’m sure that gets tough to do at times. Just keep the strong will you seem to have.So glad your hubby supports you like he does! Yahoo for him. Take care and be well.