Constance Faith Koehler (Connie) has a natural talent to create. Connie drew and created things all through her life. No one realized her talent, not even after an ink and crayon piece she created in first grade called, "The Gumdrop Tree", which was put on the front cover of the Alabama school Journal in 1964. She was born in Gadsden, Alabama where she attended first grade with her twin brother. Her family moved to Florida while Connie was still young. She has lived in Vero Beach for over forty years where her fifth sibling was born. In 1996 Connie painted a small painting. From the results of this small painting, her family and friends realized she had a natural talent. It was then they encouraged her to take lessons. Connie also writes poems and stories, enjoys photography and graphic design. She sells and donates her work. As a professional artist she illustrates her own stories. Some of her work has been published in the local newspaper, and on TCPalm.com. A few titles are, “Luckily, I didn't get the beak,” “Honeybees provide an interesting interlude,” and “Outdoor exploration.” Her opinion, “Add Parenting to Our Academic Curriculum” was published in the opinions section of her local Press Journal newspaper, as well as her opinion on “Black Friday.” One painting was featured in The Vero Magazine, another hung in Duval's Gallery, Key West, Florida, many were accepted into juried art shows, and many of her photos are featured in her local newspaper. (One of those photos won a second place photo contest). She gives thanks for these gifts because they aided in her confidence. Doors opened and her low self-esteem boosted into a higher self-esteem. Because of these talents and the encouragement of loved ones, Connie went back to school, received her GED Diploma, and now attends a two-year college to receive an A.S. degree in Graphic Design Technology. Connie is a member of The 2013 All-Florida Academic Team and was nominated by the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. She also has her Administrative Assistance Certificate for completing Office Skills Technology. In 2006, Connie has fought Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Large B Cell cancer and won that battle. The cancer is gone. She has been clean and sober for over 26 years. Connie has blossomed into a fine artist and a remarkable person who is willing to share her experience, strength, and hope with others. She enjoys helping others, and has found that in doing so she is strengthened.