Doug Landis The original Missouri K.I.D. After Landis was injured in a wrestling accident in 1975, the outpouring of support was so great that it was the impetus for starting Missourians Who Kare for Injured and Disabled Students. Landis’ struggles and successes over the years have been well documented. As an injured teenager, his depression seemed insurmountable at times. But a dare to outdraw his brother, Monte, catapulted him out of that depression. Now his wildlife art is internationally known.

"I like to draw because it’s something I can do where I don’t need much help once I set up," he said. "I have a lot of control over it, and I’m my own person once I am working on it. There is a freedom in that…I found a talent in myself that leads me to believe that everybody has talents. Everybody can find something in themselves."

Landis is paralyzed from the neck down. He holds a pen or pencil in his mouth, and creates work with uniqueness and a style known for its intricacy. His passion, wildlife art, "starts with the eyes. The soul of the animal shines through them," he said.

Just as art has become a defining part of Doug Landis--he even has his own website called mouthart.com--Missouri K.I.D.S. defines him too. "I get a lot of satisfaction watching Missouri K.I.D.S. grow and knowing how much they help people," said Landis, who lives in Ballwin, MO.

"They’ve turned into a phenomenal organization, helping people with computers, vans, education and all sorts of necessities. I am proud to be associated with them."

The GREG HOUCK Story