Piece of a Life (Peace in a Life)

Piece of a Life (Peace in a Life), 24x48", acrylic on canvas


See a larger version here.

This painting was executed as part of a challenge to incorporate my experiences at Spaulding Rehab. I broadened the challenge and included my experience with my injury, and also included other influences (friends, family, support groups).   
 
There are many things in this painting that hold meaning. Some are more significant than others.  You already know about the fish.


I got the pink lilies from Stow Lily.

also... I've also been busy taking care of G. He's had his second knee operation of the summer, and is healing incredibly well, but has not been able to put weight on his leg.

MTV's True Life

True Life is a show on MTV. It's the only show I'll watch on the station, simply because there is some learning to be done. There are episodes that chronicle young people living their lives and navigating multiple obstacles like moving to another place for love, dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and getting a transplant. There are heavy shows, there are lighter shows.

This is a recent episode titled "I Have A Traumatic Brain Injury"

MTV's True Life "I Have A Traumatic Brain Injury"

I haven't been able to watch it all the way through, yet.
I know that MTV has a large audience, and I hope that this reaches them (wear your helmets, don't drink and drive!!), and takes some fear away from interaction with disabled people.    ... I'm kinda tired right now(pill), so I'm not really as eloquent as I would like to be. Need to go to bed, good night!

*** update

like my friend John Byler said.. brain injuries are like fingerprints, they're all different. The people in this program do have some common traits (memory loss/problems/ mobility issues), but they each have a different battle. I think that something that unites us all is that we all seem to want to help others in the same situation.  Some parts are kind of hard to watch, but the support they are getting from their caregivers is wonderful, and there are improvements.

also, I think one of the guys in the program, Donny, is in my support group. If I remember, I will look for him next time at Spaulding (they showed the hospital quickly, then showed a room I am very familiar with).

I got drugs!

Check it out, I've started my own Damien Hirst installation!
Not that I've ever been one to want to be anywhere near prescription meds, I try to do everything in my power to stay away from them. I fear the side effects.

But... yesterday, went to a Dr. and he wrote out a prescription. Trazodone. It's supposed to help me sleep, and that way I can let my brain rest and recover. I have a very low tolerance, so I only take half of a pill. And, oh boy, that half a pill is still working from last night. I am not anxious one bit. Everything is fine in my little medicated world. Dishes need cleaning..pfffft! Not worried about them. It's nice not to worry.

I read the side effects, and "uncontrollable laughter" is one of them. I already laugh at inappropriate times, so this ought to be a hoot and a half.