Spotlight on Linda Rotunda
Hello Dragons,
My name is Linda Rotunda and I’m addicted to making glass beads! I picked up my first glass rod and hot head almost 20 years ago. The first time I saw glass melt I was changed forever. I’m sure you can relate! Life changes happened, causing me to take a break. Babies and fire don’t mix. In 2019, I was diagnosed with breast cancer after my first mammogram. The following year was tough, both physically and mentally. My dreamy husband knew exactly what would bring my sparkle back!
He snuck a new workstation in the garage next to his work bench. Of all the romantic gestures he could have done, this was the best. I used my torch time to get my arms moving again. Listening to true crime podcasts and trying my hand at loads of new frit combinations helped clear my head. The fragile glass becoming flexible and more beautiful, when put to the flame, became a metaphor for my healing.
For almost 20 years I have worked at Camp Happy Days. It is a camp for kids with cancer and their siblings. Imagine my shock when I had my own battle. Cancer is ruthless. With the Covid precautions, we were unable to get the kids away from their day to day worries and fears for a week long vacation. In 2021, with the support of the local hospital, we were able to bring the entire family away for a long weekend.
My role as a camp counselor changed to bead making with the families. It was a huge success, as the children and adults were mesmerized by the glow, and pride poured out of them as they compared size, shape and color. Each bead was treasured! Camp Happy Days has asked me to bring lampwork to camp again this summer. I can’t do it without your help. Camp Happy Days is located in South Carolina, and the camp activities run from July 2nd to July 9th. Click here to apply to be a volunteer. If you are selected to be an instructor, your room and board is free. If you’re unable to teach, maybe you can help by donating supplies or funds to purchase supplies. Thank you for your help.
Thank you for the support and creativity of this group! Art heals!
In Good Health,
Linda Rotunda
Contact me at lindarotunda@yahoo.com with any questions.
More information on volunteering at Camp Happy Days can be found here.