“I never would have thought or even dreamed that that initial painted dress project would end up being anything but a mess in the corner. Instead, it became a tool that helped me get through the most challenging time in my life and connect with others experiencing the same. A project with a rippling effect that continues to help not only navigate the life of Long COVID, but in reality, life itself! A project not just for me but for everyone living in turbulent and ever-changing times. A project that says, hey, look at what can come out of the ugliness, the hard! An unexpected beauty. It tells a story of hope.”

Early the book details her plans for the future, including the role the book itself would play:

“Last summer, I felt it was time to tell my story intertwined with the painted dress project, time to heal, and time to reclaim my life. All of a sudden, I had a path on which to start and look forward to. A place where I could bring all the projects, the art, and the words of the last few years into context with this book. Something deep inside pushed me along the way, making thoughts clear in a chaotic mind. Saying, reclaim your life, no matter what that might look like, splattered with paint, tattered and torn, covered in dirt, reclaim your life and live. And to live is “not merely to survive but to write, to think, to create “ (Jean-Francoi Steiner, Treblinka). Even if that creation comes about by just throwing paint.”

Moving Forward

AnaKacia hopes that this book will not only bring hope, suggestions, and a sense of community for those struggling with Long COVID (as well as other misunderstood chronic illnesses) but also bring perspective to those who are looking in from the outside.

As we know, millions of people have been affected by COVID and now have Long COVID.  The book also includes the stories of other survivors as well as their photos making up the book cover. AnaKacia hopes that this aspect of the book will help bring a name and a face to the “numbers” we so often hear describing Long COVID. It is also a reminder that we are not at the end but barely scratching the surface of a major health crisis. There is a dire need not only for support but also for help with additional research and funding to understand Long COVID and other misunderstood post-viral chronic conditions.

About the Author: AnaKacia Shifflet is a talented Colorado gown designer based in Rye, Colorado, and is considered a rising star in wedding couture. She started her company, Averil Marie Collections, in 2015 and has been growing rapidly, with her designs reaching several western states. Her work typically featured mix-and-match pieces, a customizable line, and custom gowns. Like the entire industry, COVID presented her with the challenge of a lifetime, personally and professionally.  She contracted COVID, got over it, and now is coping with Long COVID. Due to her prolonged illness, her business has been put on hold.  Her current focus is on her health, her family, and advocating for others. Her passion for art and design continues to aid her through her many symptoms and has helped her find purpose and connect with others going through similar challenges. You can connect with AnaKacia @averilmarie on Instagram, and @anakaciamarie on TikTok.