Mexican artist with disability hopes to be independent after being homeless

Mixed media artist Moran working with nylon thread to crochet a floral art piece at a family friend's home in Chicago's Pilsen neighbourhood. Photos: John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune/TNS

There was a time, in her younger years, when Monserrat Moran lived for her dreams, just like any other kid. She wanted to be an artist, fall in love, have her own family and buy a home.

But as she grew older, she was constantly reminded that she was different from everyone else at her Chicago high school in the United States, and that perhaps those dreams would never come true.Monse, as her mother calls her, is now 35.