April 8, 2009

Making A Wish Come True for Alan

I got a phone call on Wednesday afternoon from Dr. Matt Bitsko with ASK (Assistance Support Kindness). ASK is a non profit organization that provides financial, spiritual, social and emotional support for children with cancer and their families. Matt told me about Alan Hill who is the recipient of a room makeover from Make A Wish Foundation.

Alan's mother Laurie wanted Alan to have some special designs painted in his room. Alan aspires to become an entomologist (a branch of zoology that deals with insects) and loves bugs, all types, kinds, sizes and shapes.


So, on Saturday morning, I made my way to Alan's home. Alan is a wonderful 16 (soon to be 17) year old. He is smart and kind, and Alan has a pure zest for life.
Alan has been diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor and has been in a tough battle with this relentless disease since 2005. Alan forges on. He does not feel sad or sorry for himself. He LOVES life!
So, after speaking with Alan and his Mom, we decided on several different bugs.
And a special request from Alan's Mom; "Can you paint Wayne Alan Hill, Jr. P.H.D., Entomologist on the wall?" Well of course. I painted each dragonfly, butterfly and beetle in its place.
It was such an honor to meet Alan and his family. It was such pleasure to be able to paint in Alan's room and to know how much he appreciated it. In fact, he told me so.
On Saturday, I learned something I've always known... A mother's love is GREATER than any love there is!
Happy Birthday Alan! Prayers and blessings are being sent your way!

































































16 comments:

Poetic Dreams said...

Isn't it ironic, ya go to touch someones life and bring them joy. While they're going through a rough time, And ya find it's YOU who is being Blessed by them?
Beautiful work hun. I'm sure Alan is enjoying them as well. Big Hugs~

April Jarocka said...

I have to second the comment by Poetic Dreams. Beautiful artwork and a story that touches the soul, Leslie. I wish Alan all the best in his dream to become an insect specialist and in his recovery from his illness.
Happy painting, and Happy Easter!

aliceinparis said...

What a wonderful thing to do. I am sure he is thrilled with his room and it brings him great joy. You too!

Janet said...

You are a kind soul and a good example in the world. I'm glad I found your blog.

take good care, Iris

Ring by Ring Designs said...

Great job, Leslie. He will be thrilled. I follow a blog written by a "BT" Mother. The kids are so appreciative and inspiring. http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lexiewilliams

Amy Gethins Sullivan said...

~Beautiful Leslie~
all of it~
~what a beautiful boy Alan is~

done with love~

:)
~Amy~

bindu said...

It's so amazing, what you do, Leslie. You are truly inspiring. I am sure Alan loves his room.

LADY ROOTS said...

Sistren Leslie,

Your love has once again (wo)manifested itself in your artwork. Idren Alan has been lifted in prayer by people around the world because of your blog post.

I am honoured to know you. I love you!

Bless Up,
Lady Roots

Karin Bartimole said...

This is such a wonderful post Leslie! As a big bug fan, I love your collection of critters, love Alan's wish and your help in manifesting it for him, and really love his mother's affirmation for the future - all of it is very inspiring and joyful in the midst of life's challenges.
WIshing you and your family a happy Easter. love, Karin

hippo chick said...

What a heart warming post for the Easter weekend. It is beautiful and I know Alan must be so happy. And what a wonderful mother.

Please pray for my friend, Sue, who is dealing with spinal and lymph cancer. She, like Alan, is struggling to be posiitve in this situation.

Thanks for being a part of healing through love.

~hippo hugs~

Scott said...

Very touching. As Poetic Dreams and April Jarocka said, it's so amazing how we set out to make someone happy and when we leave, the happiness has been shared equally among the two. Great job on the bugs too. Just, don't paint any in my room please. I'm not a big fan of bugs. :)

Belle said...

You're an angel.

Patty said...

You ARE an angel and a blessing to my beloved friends, the Hill family. I love the photos of Alan's room and hope to visit and see it first hand later this week. Thank you for being a marvelous talent with such a big heart.

pink dogwood said...

You are an angel - I love what you do and your committement to bring happiness to others. Wishing you the very best :)

3L said...

Very cool. I love to hear happy endings.

Anonymous said...

You do amazing work! Thank you for all that you do!