November 9, 2008

Beach Escape-Thomas Palliative Care Unit

And this is how I started my day yesterday...with a very large blank wall-my canvas-where to begin?
The Thomas Palliative Care Unit located at MCV Medical Center Massey Cancer Center has a unique, home-like environment. There are volunteers throughout the unit and many more dedicated people making a difference for patients and their families struggling with cancer and the many effects it has, emotionally and physically.
I was provided with this great opportunity to paint "something beachy" in the family room. The unit had collectively decided on the theme. Let the painting begin...

I sketched a palm tree and a FLOWER on the wall and prepared my pallet. Ellie Coyne is the kind, calming and gracious lady that I initially met with to discuss the project. She is very much aware of ALL that is needed to restore the soul during one's battle with the "BIG C".

I also met 2 young college students, Salima & Tran (each studying and working toward medical school) volunteers; that give their time to make a difference on the unit. I could tell that they wanted to help paint the mural-and that they did, adding seashells, a sailboat and a starfish! Perfect!

I will return next Saturday to complete the beach escape. I hope that this gift will allow those coping with the difficult task of healing, an escape if only for a moment, to get away to another place that is peaceful, soothing and comforting.
Praise be to GOD who is the ultimate healer and allows each one of us to become an instrument in His grand world of LOVE!

















IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO DONATE TO THE MASSEY CANCER CENTER... Please click on the yellow link, top left side on my site!




13 comments:

Cris said...

What a wonderful project! I'm sure the patients and their families appreciate it! I noticed that you also did a little girl's room. Fun! I remember my grandma always painted murals on her living room wall. She changed it pretty often! She also painted many, many oil paintings. The ones I remember the most were the beach scenes similar to the one you just did.

Ring by Ring Designs said...

Leslie, Great start on the mural. It really is appreciated by cancer (well any) patients. I had an ultra sound one time and the nurse had fish mobiles all over the room which she darkened when she did the test. Of couse, you are on your back and can look up at the moving fish. Very relaxing. Can't wait to see the finished product.
Bev

merci33 said...

I'm so happy that you left a post and lovely comment on my blog. Thanks it was so sweet of you and it allowed me to then come over and see what you are doing as an artist in your community.
I am so inspired by your good work and know that the love that you've placed onto these walls will resonate for many as healing energy during their time of need.
bravo bravo

LADY ROOTS said...

Sistren Leslie,

Joy and love on a paint brush! You are leaving a legacy of hope that will touch countless people.

The mural I want you to paint on my back verandah will be lush greenery, magnificent ferns and huge vibrantly coloured jungle flowers. I hope Jah will let that come to pass one day.

I love you,
Bless Up,
Lady Roots

Unknown said...

Your murals are beautiful! Thanks for stopping by my blog. Let me know how your print comes out.

kiran sawhney said...

wow. love the artwork you did. Incredible.

Anonymous said...

lovely! all year summer feeling in that room, i'm envious :-).

Leslie Rubio said...

Thanks to everyone that posted a comment here! I love to get feedback and I really do appreciate all of the compliments! It's so encouraging to me and just makes me want to paint more and more!

GRACIAS!

Amy Gethins Sullivan said...

Les~
Your mural looks beautiful~
It is going to make so many people HaPpY!~
I Love You~
~Amy~

Kimmi said...

What a great project, to bring comfort or even a smile to people that are going through challenges in the lifes!!!!

Kimberly

Pam Mattick Art and Stuff said...

Nice mural Leslie. And for a good cause too. My little sister just developed a blood clot, they think because of the port, so they are removing that today and then blood thinners.
We pray...
Blessings and thanks for the sweet comment,
Pam

Cat (darklingwoods) said...

How wonderful to add your beautiful art and love to a space that can filled with fear. Here's to hope!

Timmy said...

WOw, Leslie! That is beautiful! And in one day! I'm very impressed and inspired. Your blog is so cheery; i love it! And thank you for the lovely comment on my blog. :]