Who's Who

When I was invited to Shands, I did not know I would be receiving the invitation to fall in love with my life, and that’s exactly what happened to me. Helen Walsh, a nurse administrator, thought one of her patients could use a visit by an artist and she chose me. Helen introduced me to pediatric oncologist Dr. Graham-Pole, the Arts in Medicine program, and my first little patient. My life was forever changed. Together we painted t-shirts and pillowcases, painted pictures, made up stories, and danced; and sometimes we just sat real close not saying anything. We made art, and I watched her go through the experience of a bone marrow transplant, her brush with death and rescue. I was supported by the transplant care team, the physicians, the artists in residence and her family. When I reflect on my experience as an artist in residence I see how the creative arts invite us to experience and give the best of who we are, to share and receive the best of others and to fall deeply in love with our lives.