An artist living in the Valley has endured a physical challenge all of his life that has not stopped him from doing what he does best, painting.

52-Year-old Michael Altepeter was born premature, only 2 pounds and 10 ounces, many people didn't expect him to survive. He did make it, but he had to live with cerebral palsy for the rest of his life. As a child, Altapeter remembers many sad moments that he wished he didn't remember. His parents abused him mentally and physically throughout his life. Altepeter says the only person who brought a smile to his face was his cousin Jackie Sue. Jackie Sue was his inspiration to begin painting. He began to paint portraits and landscapes, but he knew those paintings weren't his passion. The sea horse's appearance was what intrigued Altapeter the most, but continuing to do what he loves the most has been more challenging. Cerebral palsy may cause him to slow down his paintings but he says he'll never what he loves the most, painting sea horses.