To be an Encouragement
To the doctors, nurses, and therapists who walk this road together with their patients: Your work reminds us that the most beautiful skies can come after the storm.
The Encouragement Series
These paintings are offered in gratitude to the medical teams whose skill and compassion inspired my journey of healing and guides other patients through challenge and toward renewal.
Together you have helped reveal the light ahead.
A Journey of Healing
In July 2025, I was hospitalized due to an extensive ischemic stroke. It occurred without warning and left me frozen in my mind. I lost my words and complete use of the right side of my body for hours. I was in the Neuro ICU for 5 days, followed by 5 days at an inpatient rehab. Everyone was concerned by the severity of the stroke and the deficiencies that it brought about.
Luckily, my wife was able to get me the care I needed and I received a miraculous medicine within 4 hours of my stroke which reduced the clot and placed me on the road to recovery. I was surrounded by prayer, friends and family.
I began a triad of speech, occupational, and physical therapy and was surrounded by teams of nurses, doctors and therapists who presented me a path to follow.
I drew, painted, cooked, walked, and juggled. I realized that the brain is extraordinary. I visualized my brain, not filled with deficits but of pathways forward. I imagined moving towards the light.
Recovery requires courage, determination, and helpful hands. Recovery is a balance of looking back, standing in the present, and looking forward. I was compelled to embrace my recovery and paint once again. I wanted to find a way to thank those for the encouragement I needed. I wanted my recovery and their work to be an encouragement to others. I am humbled by this gift of recovery and the strength I've regained.
