An illustration of hands doing various tasks related to embroidery and hand-sewing. Hands holding needles and thread, a hand embroidering a hoop, a thimble with needle and thread, and a pin cushion.

Chronically Creative:
A Blog and Support Community by
Artist and Author Kelly J. Mendenhall

For the chronically ill and chronically fabulous crafter.
(Or future crafter.)

Product Review Policy

As a disabled folk artist and author, I frequently create blog posts that highlight my favorite products, whether for crafting and creating or for navigating life with hidden disabilities.

My blog posts may contain affiliate links to sites like Amazon or directly to the brands I’m discussing. My intention is to convey this information in a way that is fun and engaging.

The income I earn through content creation, blogging, affiliate marketing, and product reviews helps supplement my Social Security Disability benefits. It’s important to me that I only recommend products or services that I have personally tried and enjoyed. I do not accept payment for my reviews. Simply put, if I haven’t used a product and appreciated it, I won’t endorse it to you.

An interview with Kelly J. Mendenhall an d Shoutout Michigan
Crafting, Interviews & Press, Chronic Illness Life Kelly J. Mendehall Crafting, Interviews & Press, Chronic Illness Life Kelly J. Mendehall

An interview with Kelly J. Mendenhall an d Shoutout Michigan

“I’m not responsible for the past traumas inflicted on me by doctors, lawyers, judges, ex-partners, former family members, etc.; All of that will be what it is, forever. But I *am responsible for vitality, and it is ultimately up to me whether or not I pursue and achieve the best possible quality of life.”

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Interview with CanvasRebel: Meet Kelly J. Mendenhall
Crafting, Interviews & Press, Chronic Illness Life Kelly J. Mendehall Crafting, Interviews & Press, Chronic Illness Life Kelly J. Mendehall

Interview with CanvasRebel: Meet Kelly J. Mendenhall

“People are far more aware of medical gaslighting now than they were when I began writing about it in that article way back in 2018, And I had gotten damn good at fighting against it and being vocal about the fight! What I feel we lack now is information on what to do when you experience and survive medical gaslighting. What do you do? How do you move on with your life and put the fight down when it’s time?”

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What is Piriformis Syndrome, and do I have it?
Chronic Illness Life, Medical Musings, Crafting Kelly J. Mendehall Chronic Illness Life, Medical Musings, Crafting Kelly J. Mendehall

What is Piriformis Syndrome, and do I have it?

In a study observing gender-related pain biases, researchers found that there was a "growing body of evidence" that indicated significant differences in pain response and treatment between men and women. Women are more likely to experience pain and be more sensitive to it.

Robert H. Shmerling, MD, associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and Clinical Chief of Rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, says Piriformis Syndrome appears to be more prevalent among women. However, the reason for this has yet to be discovered.

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Life & Work with Kelly Mendenhall: VoyageMichigan
Crafting, Interviews & Press, Chronic Illness Life Kelly J. Mendehall Crafting, Interviews & Press, Chronic Illness Life Kelly J. Mendehall

Life & Work with Kelly Mendenhall: VoyageMichigan

I was lucky. I grew up with a super creative, artistic, multi-talented mother who constantly immersed us in creative pursuits. So, I’ve always leaned on the creative arts for self-expression and to express love and appreciation for others in good times and bad. But most of my friends grew up entirely unexposed to these things. My mom is also a fantastic artist and Jill of All Trades. She inspires me constantly.

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Transforming Trauma: Kelly J. Mendenhall’s Inspiring Journey
Crafting, Interviews & Press, Chronic Illness Life Kelly J. Mendehall Crafting, Interviews & Press, Chronic Illness Life Kelly J. Mendehall

Transforming Trauma: Kelly J. Mendenhall’s Inspiring Journey

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Share the story behind the founding of the Affordable Art Revolution and what inspired you to create a pay-what-you-can platform.

  • How has your personal journey with chronic illness and disability influenced your work as an artist and advocate?

  • Describe the impact you hope your handmade items have on the wellness of your customers.

  • In what ways do you think Art and creative expression can help individuals dealing with mental health issues and chronic pain?

  • How do you see the role of advocacy in your work, and what specific changes are you striving to achieve in terms of disability inclusion?

  • How do you see the role of advocacy in your work, and what specific changes are you striving to achieve in terms of disability inclusion?

  • What future projects or goals do you have for the Affordable Art Revolution and your broader mission of spreading love, joy, and accessibility?

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