After Spinal Cord Injury, Plainview Woman Turns Passion For Painting Into Fundraiser

PLAINVIEW, NY — A Plainview resident has found a passion for painting after a ski accident left her paralyzed — she is spreading the joy through a fundraiser in April.

After facing a spinal cord injury, Rebecca Koltun has had to overcome several life-changing challenges. The community has rallied around her with annual fundraisers, marathons, and more.

The Paint & Hang Fundraiser on April 19 is a painting class taught by Koltun herself, where participants can learn her techniques and experience her creative process firsthand.

"Painting is something that has helped me express myself, and I learned how to do it in the hospital," she said. "I’m excited to be able to share this passion with other people through this fundraiser. It also excites me that everyone will go home with a painting that I have created in the past."

Participation is $55, and all proceeds will go to Help Hope Live in honor of Koltun to support her medical needs.

"This fundraiser is important to me because it is a celebration of my five years since my accident that left me paralyzed from the neck down," Koltun said.

The event will take place at the MIY JCC Plainview at 45 Manetto Hill Road in Plainview, and participants can sign up online.