*For Office Pickup Only*

Original abstract painting titled "The Precarious Climb" by former Kidney Camper and kidney transplant recipient, Abbie Laker.

Acrylic and modeling paste on canvas- 30"x40"

In the words of the artist:

"I'm Abbie Laker, I was born with dysplastic kidneys and admitted to Riley within hours of birth. I spent my first six weeks in the neonatal unit until I was strong enough for a surgery that removed my right kidney and reconstructed my left. Dr. Bergstein and his team followed my care until I needed a transplant at age five. I was also followed by urology, orthopedics, gastroenterology, endocrinology, and developmental pediatrics.

From an early age, I remember filling the gaps between all of my appointments with art based activities, art became my shield for the unforeseeable future. I was blessed to receive a kidney from my mom before my sixth birthday and just as I now felt "normal" my peers began to treat me differently. From that point on, art helped me navigate individuals who couldn't process what I had lived through. Kidney camp gave me a chance to feel normal and interact with others having similar life experiences. I loved it!

I'm now 24 years old and have had my transplant for 18 years now. I graduated with my B.A. from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods in May and I'm currently in my first semester of graduate work toward a Masters in Art Therapy."