Moving Forward: Having Hope to Someday Run Again
When Faith graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in set design, she dreamed of a life in performing arts. Faith’s dreams led her to both intern at the world-renowned Julliard School and teach dance with Fred Astaire Dance Studios.
“It was one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done,” Faith said.
Faith continued to teach dance as long as she could, even after she was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome. More recently, Faith has continued her life-long interest in art by painting, aiming to finish at least one piece a week.
“Often, I’m just trying to create a pretty picture,” Faith said. “Afterward is when I see a lot of meaning in it. It’s kind of unconscious.”
Her paintings have become a successful small business. In total, Faith has sold 117 paintings — canvas and watercolors — through her online Etsy account and Facebook page. The inspiration, she said, comes from sticking to the basics.
“I don’t like trying to paint things too literally,” Faith said. “I just use a picture and let it go where it goes.”
In addition to living with chronic fatigue syndrome, Faith has pulmonary hypertension. A chronic disease of the lungs and heart, she often struggled to breathe before receiving treatment.
“I could barely walk up and down the street,” she said. “Just sitting up trying to paint was tiring. I had to be on oxygen all the time.”
To afford her treatment, her doctor suggested contacting The Assistance Fund for assistance. TAF’s Pulmonary Hypertension Copay Assistance Program provides financial assistance for out-of-pocket costs for all prescribed FDA-approved treatment for the disease, treatment like the one Faith relies upon.
“It costs a lot of money,” Faith said. “If it wasn’t for the treatment, I might not be able to do my art.”
Faith said her medication has made a significant difference and allows her to be more active.
“I feel pretty normal,” Faith said. “I’m able to go to the store, do errands, housework, and my art.”
Last year, Faith heard of TAF’s art contest and entered a piece she’d done for a friend. She said the piece symbolizes moving forward and having hope in her life.
“I’ve had a trend of getting better with my health,” she said. “It has a lot of meaning for me.”
Off toward the sunset is a runner — something meaningful to her. Before she was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, Faith loved going for runs. She said it’s symbolic of moving forward.
“I don’t know if I’ll run again in this life, but I believe in heaven,” Faith said. “It represents hope for me that I will someday run again.”
