From Hiatus to Healing: My Journey Back to Painting with a Wrist Brace

Life has a way of throwing curveballs, and for me, the past 3 plus years were a whirlwind of unexpected challenges. But through resilience, love, and a touch of canine chaos, I found my way back to the canvas—this time, with a wrist brace on my left hand, a full arm brace on my right hand and a renewed sense of purpose.

It all began with a sudden fall. My husband suffered a serious fall that left him temporarily immobile and in need of constant care. The days blurred into weeks as I stepped into the role of caregiver, putting my art on hold to focus on his recovery. It was a slow and steady climb, but with determination and support, he regained his strength—an inspiring testament to the power of healing and encouragement.

Just as things began to settle, our beloved goldendoodle, Katie, faced a health crisis of her own: a torn ACL. Surgery was inevitable, and the recovery process was no small feat. I found myself once again in nurse mode, this time for a furry patient who didn’t quite understand the concept of rest. Between ice packs, vet visits, and gentle walks, the Katie's spirit never wavered—and neither did mine.

Adding to the household’s lively dynamic was our Bouvier-doodle, Charlie, a gentle giant with a heart of gold and a knack for comic relief. Whether it was nudging my arm during sketch sessions or curling up beside me during constant moments of fatigue, Charlie became an unexpected source of emotional support.

Then came a fall while walking the dogs, that broke my left wrist. And then my right hand began to protest by going numb—already strained from years of painting. In between the wrist issues, my body also began to protest and I had 3 unrelated surgeries year before the inevitable surgery on my numbing right arm so that I could paint again. But rather than give up, I adapted. With a supportive full arm brace on my right arm and a modified technique, I recently returned to my studio, brush in hand and canvases that would eventually contain stories of animals I have had the pleasure of meeting or at least knowing from a distance. I am hopeful that you will find that my latest works reflect the emotional depth of someone who has weathered many storms and found the spirt of the animals an inspiration in the aftermath.

My journey is a reminder that injuries and healing are not linear, creativity often blooms in the most unlikely conditions, and with enough grit and perseverance, I can be in front of the easel once again.

I am not supposed to lift more than 2 pounds with my right arm which is in a temporary 45-degree position, making lifting canvases only possible with my left arm. I am now pending surgery early next year on my left wrist once again. I am looking forward to the healing power of art as I continue to put forth pieces that I hope you will enjoy seeing.