SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (WXYZ) – 12-year-old Grace Luotonen has been using her artwork to make a difference for as long as she can remember.
“I like to help others,” Grace said.
Taking art supplies to sick children in hospitals, Grace created one of the first fundraisers by making greeting cards.
“I dedicated a card to children who have passed away from heart defects. So I wanted to make one that symbolized them,” Grace said.
Grace designed them using EKG paper. Something she says makes more sense.
“My doctor had given me my EKG and I thought I would make art out of it,” she said.
Grace was born with a rare genetic condition called Situs Inversus, in which the organs in her body are turned upside down. Grace also has a heart condition that results in abnormal tissue growth within her heart. Because of this, Grace has undergone two open heart surgeries, most recently in 2021.
“It was really scary because nobody wants to be in a hospital bed walking down the hall, realizing this is the moment,” Grace said.
But Grace was brave beyond belief. Melissa, Grace’s mother, says her daughter lived up to her nickname, Amazing Grace.
“We’re supposed to be in the hospital for a few days, but 72 hours later, she’s home, eating lunch, nothing but Tylenol and Motrin for pain,” Melissa said.
And even though Grace’s health challenges continue, her father Aaron is proud that his little girl still has the strength to help others.
“You know, take something that you love and use it to help other kids, in whatever way it can be used,” Aaron said.
“I just remember when I was there, art really helped me. It really takes your mind off things. And I want other kids to have the same experience I had,” Grace said.
As greeting cards continue to be a big hit at the University of Michigan’s annual ‘Save A Heart’ gala. Grace also raised funds by selling flower petal pens made from duct tape. She also helped get two more defibrillators to the sports fields at her school.
“Currently, I’m raising money to buy art supplies for the kids at the U of M hospital. And, I have a page to fund me,” Grace said.
“We know there’s more open-heart surgery in her future. It’s going to be additional challenges. But she doesn’t let that get in the way. She never focuses on the negative. She’s always focused on the positive. I think if anyone can change the world, Grace can,” Melissa said.
To contribute to Grace’s current fundraising campaign, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/graces-global-impact-art-drive.
