About

April 2020. Covid. The world changed.

Mine did like many, and in ways that would forever go on to define me. The Medical diagnostics industry was not the ideal place to work, especially when supplies were running low and demand was extraordinarily high and there was .... sales quota. Stress was incredibly high, I was about to have a second shoulder surgery, (at 46 years old??) this time a replacement, and my family and I were leaving our dream home, selling most of what we owned and moving to a tiny home.

...and then the call.

You know what they say about being a twin, well I am one and it's true. We feel things and we connect to things that happen to each other, so much so that great news can make you swing into manic highs and the bad news can cripple you.

The call was crippling.

My twin brother and sister-in-law

found their 16 year old son, sick with a high fever and fatigue. Oh no! It was Covid? We could have only hoped. He instead had developed

Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

When? How? Why? 

There were no warnings. It was out of the blue.

Our worlds changed. 

Hunter James Stocks fought a tremendous, lonely (no thanks to covid) battle while being admitted to multiple children's cancer wards. Outside of the multiple spinal taps, biopsies, blood transfusions, and chemo sessions, he filled his time painting. He was an artist. He drew and painted on canvas, walls and windows; anywhere that would accept his contribution. I sent him art supplies, never picking up a single brush. 

Painting? art?

not me.

So I thought.

After a courageous battle, He left us for his eternal reward. Jesus was waiting to welcome Hunter and now they are working in mighty ways that exceed our understanding. One of the things I am certain they have been working on is me! 

Just after we lost Hunter, my successful career exploded, we moved and sold more stuff

again

and again

and yep, again

and my shoulder did not appreciate the effort. The 3 years was taking it's toll, the pain now chronic. I was lost. 

With covers over my head, I scrolled through social media on my phone and

there was a lady, 

painting Christmas cards. 

I felt encouraged and joyful while I watched her effortlessly paint the surface of the cold pressed cotton paper and I thought,

I.can.do.this.

I did. 

I created LizHope Art after realizing my passion for painting was real. It is a freedom and peace I have only ever dreamed of.  I am vulnerable but courageous and I am showing the world what Hunter and Jesus have given to me. Painting has also provided a way for me to give to organizations that support children in their fight against cancer! 

In my eyes, each painting is a journey, not just a product or "piece". It's a testament that life goes on, and in

miraculous ways

it provides so much joy after pain. 

My story is like many. I am not alone when it comes to struggles but I have found that I am unique.

I am "me", Wonderfully made.

I feel free. 

I encourage you to be as well.

Thank you for exploring my art.

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