Local artist opened her shop 16 years ago — but she just turned 15
HOLLAND — Holland's beloved local artist, Carolyn Stich, is turning 15 on Thursday. What's odd about that? Well, for starters, she was born in 1964 — and she opened her shop 16 years ago.
Stich is a Leap Day baby, born on Feb. 29. Originally from St. Louis, she moved to Holland about 30 years ago. Her shop, Carolyn Stich Studio, opened in the aughts.
Having a special birthday has been a talking point in Stich's life.
“It’s just been a fun, little quirky thing,” she said. “I love the uniqueness of it and the funny thing about it is, everyone remembers my birthday.”
So, when does she celebrate on non-Leap Years? Her preference is Feb. 28.
“I’ll celebrate whenever anybody wants to celebrate,” she said. “Any chance to get together with friends.”
Stich's postive attitude and optimism is a welcome boon for visitors off the street. She says she has much to be grateful for.
Six years ago, Stich was diagnosed with cancer. She fought and beat it, but it returned in another form last year.
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"We all have a journey," she said. "Life isn't always easy. My journey has been cancer, but I've had the best care and for some reason, I knew I was going to be okay. ... Even with the challenges I've had, I am just so grateful for being here and getting to do what I love to do."
For her fifteenth birthday, Stich is excited to visit with family. They’ve actually rented out Park Theatre and will celebrate with a quinceañera.
— Contact reporter Austin Metz at ametz@hollandsentinel.com.
This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Local artist opened her shop 16 years ago — but she just turned 15
