As far back as I can remember, I have always loved art. My creative leanings were evident, from sprawling on the sidewalk happily colouring with crayons to spending hours on paint-by-number projects to designing school play brochures and scenery backdrops. As I grew older, sketching and painting became hobbies.
In 2009, at the age of 62, I was diagnosed with Parkinson Disease (PD). It was worrisome news. I instantly thought of Michael J. Fox, who also has PD, and I wondered how long it would take before I would see a profound impact on my body and health. I was told that people can live a long time with proper monitoring of medication, exercise, and support. That was encouraging.
I am incredibly grateful for my family, who give me enormous support, care, and encouragement daily. My wife, Audrey, and I have two sons, two daughters-in-law, and four fantastic grandchildren – one grandson and three granddaughters. My family knows how vital art has always been to me. In 2012, for my 65th birthday, they gave me a gift certificate for art lessons and supplies.
Attending those lessons sparked my interest anew! When I retired in 2014, I had plenty of time to focus on my art. I started meeting with a very accomplished and well-recognized Calgary artist for one art class per week. My medium of choice is acrylics. I paint landscapes from photos Audrey and I have taken during our travels across North America and Europe, as well as abstracts and other images.
I have produced over 110 paintings in the past ten years and have a website to showcase my varied works. Earlier this year, I became connected to the Parkinson Association of Alberta. I was invited to partner with PAA for the May 24 One of A Kind Brunch to promote my art and inspire others living with Parkinson’s. The proceeds from my work at the event will return to the PAA.
It has been 16 years since my diagnosis, and I feel fortunate that the challenges that I have and am experiencing with Parkinson’s have progressed at a relatively slow rate. It is only lately that I have experienced a very mild tremor in my arm. Interestingly, when I paint, I don’t experience any symptoms of Parkinson’s. I am very thankful for this. Although I am not as prolific with my art today as I used to be, I will continue painting as the spirit moves me. I hope to inspire others in their journey with Parkinson’s.
