Before Camilla Moss ever picked up a paintbrush, she worked as a CPA for years after studying accounting. Her life changed dramatically in 2018 when her youngest son, David, was born. Shortly after his birth, David was diagnosed with Down Syndrome—a diagnosis that brought Camilla‘s life to a halt. She left her job to care for her children at home.

When Everything Changed

Like many families facing unexpected news, they went through all the emotions—fear, uncertainty, even disappointment. They knew the road ahead wouldn’t be easy. Looking for something to help her cope, Camilla‘s mother suggested she try watercolor painting.

“My mother encouraged me to paint,” Camilla recalls. What started as just a way to find some peace soon turned into something much more. Today, her work ranges from watercolor monograms and family crests to botanicals and coastal scenes. You can find her creations at https://www.camillamoss.com/

David’s Time at United Ability

From age 3 to 5, David attended Hand in Hand at United Ability. This wasn’t just school—it was where he thrived. He made friends, learned to walk in just six months, and made huge strides in his speech. Along the way, he caught his mom’s creative bug.

Camilla smiles when she talks about David at age 5. “He would burst into my studio saying ‘paint, paint!’ His smile was just so contagious when he was helping me.”

Painting Together, Giving Back

“We owe so much to United Ability,” Camilla says. That gratitude sparked an idea for a special collaboration. For their March collection, David and Camilla worked side by side—he chose colors and laid down watercolor layers, while she added finishing touches and gold accents before framing each piece.

Their artwork will launch on March 21st—World Down Syndrome Day—with a portion of the proceeds going to United Ability. 

The Unexpected Gift

Looking back, Camilla now sees David’s diagnosis as “a blessing.” It completely shifted how they see the world and helped them embrace their life with a child with Down Syndrome. Through their artwork, they’re reaching out to others who might be walking a similar path.

What once seemed overwhelming has revealed unexpected beauty—proof that sometimes life’s biggest challenges bring the most meaningful gifts.

Please call (205) 944-3900 for more information about Early Intervention or Hand Hand Early Learning Program .