Bringing Joy and Relief: Veteran's Story of Mosaic Art Classes During Cancer Battle

Written by Yvette, daughter of Richard. 

Richard and Yvette

My father, Richard, has been coming to Piece by Piece's Creative Forces Mosaic Classes since the moment he saw the flyer up at the VA last year. He has raved about it since the first class and it was all he wanted to talk about.

About 3 months ago, my father was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. As you can imagine, this has been heartbreaking for all of us but in the midst... the mosaic class is what has brought him joy and a feeling of grounding. So much so that he has told every doctor that he has a standing appointment on Fridays that he is not able to miss unless absolutely necessary.

This class has not only brought him joy, it has been central to his coping with his diagnosis. He has found that working outside at the golf course to be one of the most peaceful things he has done in his life. The location was arranged by Village for Vets. He enjoys the mosaic work so much that he has purchased tools, glass, beads and other items so that he can continue this at home.

He shows pictures of his work to friends, family and the many doctors he sees. He is proud of the class project and wants to see it hanging at the 500 building. He has hung up his work and placed plants in the pots he has created. This work has been therapeutic for him in ways that cannot be measured.

Lastly, the most important part of this class has been the community he has found. The women that run this program have literally become his friends and support. Dawn and Wendy have checked up on him outside of the class and are so attentive to him. They have been a witness to his life and have offered moral support each and every week. They have also invited me to join in on the class and this has been very special for both of us. This time will be a treasured memory for both of us.

This class has been transformative for my father. He has learned a new skill, it is in the most beautiful setting and he has found a community.

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