Many of you know Paula McCoy — the heart behind Colors for Earth — through the ceramic and fused glass community over the past 35+ years.

If you’ve ever learned from her, watched one of her demonstrations, or been encouraged by her generosity in sharing techniques and knowledge, then you already know… Paula gives so much of herself to others.

If you don’t know Paula personally, I have had the privilege of calling her a dear friend for decades. We’ve traveled together over the years, teaching and painting at classes and shows, and I’ve seen firsthand the heart she brings to everything she does. She is incredibly talented, but even more than that, she is generous—always willing to share her knowledge, creativity, and encouragement with others.

Right now, Paula is facing something she cannot carry alone.

She was recently diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma (bone marrow cancer) along with severe osteoporosis. For years, she has quietly lived with significant back pain, and this diagnosis finally gave her answers—but it also means stepping into an intense season of treatment.

Her treatment begins April 13th and is expected to last 4–6 months, including weekly treatments and ongoing care. Through it all, Paula is determined to keep her business running so she can continue serving the community she loves. That says so much about who she is.

But the reality is this:

While Paula is strong and determined, the financial burden of treatment is overwhelming.

Her insurance (Oscar) is only covering a portion of the costs. Between:

Expensive cancer medications

Weekly treatments and infusions

Ongoing personal and business expenses

…the gap is significant and growing quickly.

Paula lives alone, has been faithfully carrying both life and business responsibilities since losing her husband five years ago, and continues to work hard every day—often reinvesting what she earns right back into her company to serve others well.

Now she needs us.

If Paula has ever impacted you—even in a small way—this is an opportunity to come alongside her.

Ways you can help:

Donate, if you’re able

Share this page to help it reach others

Support her by purchasing from Colors for Earth

Every bit of support matters more than you know.

A note from another fellow Ceramic Artist, David Hoff:

“I have known and worked with Paula for over 30 years. She has shared so many wonderful techniques and patterns with our community. I would love to see her artwork continue to thrive for years to come. Walking through treatment isn’t easy, and if you’re able to help—even in a small way—it would mean so much.”

Paula would never be the first to ask for help—but she has always been one of the first to give it.

Let’s be that support for her now.