Summer Porch

Since Parkinson’s manifests in my body as rigidity, not tremor, it took over a year to get a correct diagnosis. At one point during this year I needed bunion surgery, which limited my ability to move. Without regular exercise the disease progressed more quickly. There were days when my limbs could only move painfully, with great difficulty, but still, no one could figure out what was wrong with me. My usual positive outlook was verging on despair. In order to grapple with this both physically, and emotionally, I tried to find peace or joy however I could. I tried to live in the moment. Sitting on my porch, feeling the warmth of the sun on my face and seeing the colorful display of sun’s dance with shadows and light gave me precious glimpses of solace which helped to keep me going. This piece is inspired by the life giving properties of the sun.

Used by permission of the artist.