The eldest daughter of John and Audrey Ferguson, Ella, was born into a family rooted in their community and enriched by their shared love of gardening, art, and, most notably, music.
Ella entered her family's musical tradition as a fifth-generation fiddler, performing in her family's band, Hair of the Dog. The Fergusons' love for music extended beyond their home, with their regular community potlucks and jam sessions becoming a cherished part of their local culture.
From a four-year-old receiving her first fiddle to a young woman traveling abroad and immersing herself in organic farming, Ella's journey has been one of curiosity, growth, and joy.
In 2021, the unthinkable happened. Ella collapsed at a family funeral and was rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered intracranial bleeding caused by an undiagnosed congenital issue. She underwent emergency surgery that saved her life. The brain injury from the bleeding, however, left Ella partially paralyzed on her left side. After the initial crisis ended, Ella began the hard work of recovery. Initially wheelchair-bound, Ella can now walk and has regained many of her abilities.
She has come so far, and the prognosis is a full recovery. Yet many miles remain to travel, and Ella cannot do it alone.
To achieve a full recovery, Ella will undergo an array of therapies to facilitate healing and regain full use of her left side. In addition, she will require emotional, psychological, and vocational support while she completes this passage.