Angela O'Neal in her at-home creator's studio working on a piece. CNN

Almost every day, Angela O’Neal sits down in her at-home creator’s studio, either painting, sketching or contemplating her next original piece to add to an abundant collection.

In recent weeks, her daily ritual has taken on a new meaning as she faces the same challenges as many furloughed federal employees — struggling to pay mounting health care bills, a mortgage and the costs of living without a steady paycheck.

As the government shutdown persists past a month, over a million furloughed federal workers will continue to go without pay, including this Prince George’s County, Maryland, resident.

“It’s been somewhat devastating for a lot of us,” O’Neal told CNN during an interview in her home. “I don’t think I realiz

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