Chronic Illness and Art

Hey guys!

This post is going to get a little more personal than the others. If you have been reading my other posts, you can probably gather that I have been sick for a good portion of my life. Although it has been difficult, I know I can count on my family and friends to be there for me, as well as the solace that art gives me. When I get down and frustrated with myself regarding my health, I think of other great artists who were able to rise above it.

Throughout my life, I have struggled with stomach issues, gallbladder removal, endometriosis, migraines, non epileptic seizures, herniated discs, and now, arthritis. I am also currently being tested for a rare enzyme deficiency called Hypophosphatasia, which can cause many of the aforementioned problems. I won’t know for sure if I have it, or know of anything further, until my next couple doctors appointments around May. (I should probably just live in a bubble.) Even though this has been an ongoing waiting game, I know that God has a plan for me, and has placed very special people in my life who are always there for me and willing to take care of me.

Art is something that I will never give up. It has brought so much joy to my life, and has helped me through some of my toughest times. Painting has been the best outlet I could have asked for. It takes away all of my stress, and makes me forget about all the stuff I’m struggling with for a little while. Not only has painting helped me, but learning about other artists has helped inspire me. When I read or research an artist, that gives me a push to do better. To know that these artists also struggled with something, and if they could overcome it, I can overcome my obstacles too. (Examples: Frida Kahlo, Vincent van Gogh, Edgar Degas, and Claude Monet) When my arthritis flares up or my seizures are more frequent it can be really hard to accomplish anything, but when they do it’s always a good outlet to just pick up a book on my favorite artist and just read.

I want to encourage people to find their outlet. Take time out of your day or week, and just do what you love to do. It will make you feel so much better! If you’re chronically sick, or just had a rough day, go do something that will not only be fun, but will also make you feel good about yourself. Painting can be hard at times for me, but once I am able to finish a piece, I’m really proud that I was able to accomplish it. I try to paint at least once a week, usually on the weekends, and it helps me relax and not worry so much about the next week that is coming. (Yay for Mondays, right?)

There are so many different outlets, and especially different art outlets that you can do. One easy art outlet that we used to do as children, that I know will help your stress and bring that feeling of nostalgia, is playing with Play-Doh. (Obviously not a marketing promo for Play-Doh.) I actually have a tub of it on my desk at work. (Thanks, Donna!) When I get really stressed out it’s nice to just get it out and make simple stuff out of it; like a ball or a snake. Simple things like this can make a world of a difference in your day and life. It may seem dumb, and you’ve heard the whole “me time” thing before, but it really does make a difference. In the words of Tom Haverford and Donna Meagle; “Treat yo self.”

If any of you need someone to talk to, you can find my contact information on the home page. Please feel free to ask any questions, and if you just want to have someone to vent to, I’m all ears. I hope you guys look into finding what you love to do and try to make it a part of your weekly routine. I know that it will help you in the long run, just like it has helped me over the past several years.

Love,

Camille