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Eleven years ago, my life took an unexpected turn. What began as a joyful vacation to Hawaii, filled with laughter and the gentle sway of the ocean, quickly transformed into an enduring challenge.

As I stepped back onto solid ground, I expected the sensation of movement to fade, but it didn’t. Days turned into weeks, and the rocking, swaying, and bobbing feeling persisted.

After countless visits to doctors and specialists, I was finally diagnosed with Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS), a rare and often misunderstood neurological disorder. MdDS made me feel as if I were perpetually on a rocking boat, a sensation that was both disorienting and exhausting. Simple tasks became monumental challenges, and I struggled to find balance, both physically and emotionally.

But amidst the turbulence, I found solace in the very element that had sparked this journey— the ocean.

I began creating seashell art, channeling my frustrations and hopes into each piece. The rhythmic patterns of the waves, the delicate intricacies of the seashells, and the vibrant hues of the sea became my therapy and my escape.

Art became my anchor. Each piece I crafted was not only a tribute to the beauty of the ocean but also a testament to my resilience. The process of creating allowed me to navigate the waves of MdDS with a renewed sense of purpose and tranquility.

Today, as I look back on these eleven years, I see a journey of growth and transformation. My seashell art stands as a symbol of the strength it takes to endure life’s uncharted waters and the beauty that can emerge from the most challenging experiences. Through my art, I hope to share a piece of that resilience and beauty with you, reminding us all that even in the face of adversity, we can find our way back to calm shores.

Sylvia Hemby