Meet Our Entrepreneurs

My name is Garrett C. Jones, and my journey as an artist began when I was about 9 or 10 years old, inspired to start Band ToGGether as a way to help my family and support my younger brother Gavin and me, as we both live with a rare disorder called Pelizaeus Merzbacher Disease (PMD). Years later at the Illinois Center for Rehabilitation and Education (ICRE), I discovered abstract art through an Art Therapy class, where color, texture, and creativity gave me a new way to express what I couldn't always put into words. With the help of my advisor, I began creating digital art using Paint 3D, my computer, and my power wheelchair joystick—turning limitation into possibility. During the 2020 lockdown, I poured myself into my art, and with encouragement from my aunt, began transforming my designs into functional pieces like mugs, relaunching Band ToGGether (named for Garrett and Gavin). Today, my work is all about sharing joy, color, and connection in everyday moments—inviting you to enjoy your "cuppa" in a mug of colorful inspiration.

When I was 18 years old, with graduation just around the corner, I was in need of a job! My family and friends (old and new) gathered to form a team of support. Together they helped me launch a customized business that would create a line of products, not only for myself, but hopefully for you too. My passion for books and keeping the earth a great place for all of us to live has inspired me to create an eco-friendly business; springing old books into a new purpose. I make Writing Journals and other items from discarded media. The journals are all once-loved books that have been given a new life. We use only recycled materials in our packaging and thermal-printed shipping labels. We call this a microenterprise because I am the entrepreneur of this small business. I have a form of Autism called Asperger's Syndrome, and a customized job is always the best way for me to accentuate my strengths. At HardbackYoYo, we are committed to environmental well-being, and a sustainable future.

I graduated from Loyola University Chicago in May 2014! A few days after graduation, I started my first full time job at the Chicago Lincoln Park Zoo, in the Endocrinology Department. I loved my job and the people I worked with. I had big plans! Come January 2015 I was leaving for Australia to work and to get my Masters Degree....

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Unfortunately, September of 2014 I was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, brain cancer. I had emergency surgery and they removed a golf ball sized tumor from my cerebellum. I spent weeks in the hospital. I went from running cross country, being an avid climber and outdoor sports person to not being able to even stand without help. I am much better now, but still have a variety of disability conditions. BUT I am lucky to have a great support system!

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I may not be able to pursue my career as a Biologist, but I am able to continue developing my artistic skills and build a business around my passion for travel, photography, and jewelry making!