Laura Cotton is the founder and President of a Swiss non-profit foundation called Paint a Smile. An organization dedicated to helping individuals around the world deal with the trauma of serious accidents. She has a personal reason for being active in this organization and were are glad that she took the time to answer our two question.

Thank you Laura.

My past- in a paragraph? Can a second ever equate with all thats been lived through so far? I have only a few memories of my early London years but I sure loved my Swiss boarding school! I Couldnt understand the homesick pupils as I was ecstatic to be away in a beautiful study camp, a giant 7 year sleepover!

I Learnt 6 languages, community life and the importance of ethics, respect, communicating and multiculturalism. As I grew too old to be a student there again I ran the Art departments summer camp activities for 7 wonderful years. But loosing my sister in a car crash was the turning point in my life. It is very tough being a survivor. Friends become precious in such situations.

Creating Paint a Smile was my selfish therapy to bring color to those going through traumatizing moments. I can not change my nightmare, but please let me change theirs. Why should anyone deserve that cold black experience and be surrounded with white walls?

Eleven years later and 159 projects in 14 countries down the line. I still have the same drive to make a colorful difference. Loosing my daughter at birth 3 years ago was another dagger in my life... my motivation was boosted. I sincerely hope I will look back on a long past with pride and peace at heart...!

Happiness? Being ME, feeling loved, singing, cold butter on fresh bread, laughing with my best friend. More Happiness? Realizing and completing Paint a Smile projects, team work, creative brainstorming, delivering speeches, making others laugh, communicating, feeling useful, and achievement.

More still? Being silly with children, hugging someone in need, the smell of apple crumble in the oven, decoration and design, putting up the Christmas tree, fancy dress parties, warm slippers in winter, feeling inspired. Walking out of a smoky room, taking off a scratchy sweater, getting out of tight high heels after a wonderful dance. Saying I was wrong, you were right.

What would I change in the world if I could? Simple: On a great day, just about nothing. On a bad day, I would either sell my loved ones on eBay (or take them with me, that depends) and move to another planet! Lets face it, who has not felt that way? Now be honest with yourself...

Editorial | Image Courtesy Of Laura Cotton