Everything is connected and constantly changing.

I am disabled by my genetic connective tissue disorder, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hypermobile type), which caused a spinal tumor when I was a child, and severe scoliosis as a teen and adult. I've had numerous spinal surgeries with unexpected complications due to medical error, misdiagnoses, and trauma — resulting in permanent nerve damage, paralysis of my lower right leg, recurring cerebrospinal fluid leaks, and chronic pain.

Photography allows me to express the feelings I can't find words for, and to transform my pain into art. As my spine and mobility have shifted throughout my life, it has been challenging to readjust to new ways of experiencing and being perceived by the world. Self portraiture brings me back to the present moment — to myself, and my body. I find magic and subtle awe in the landscapes and cycles around me, which mirror those within me. By spending time in nature and with my photography, I try to create peaceful and safe little worlds for myself and to share with others.

I hope my photos show you how I feel, and make you feel something personal for yourself.

all photographs © Margaret Durow