How painting helped me recover after the big C

I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2008 when I was just 28.

The doctors could give me no reason why I had developed it.

I’d spent most of the previous decade barely picking up a paint brush.

I’m not sure if those two things are related.

Probably not.  I mean, that would be a pretty extreme reaction to not painting!

But I do know that in Eastern medicine the thyroid, as part of the 5th energy chakra of the body, is the seat of self-expression, and so problems there are seen to stem from someone not expressing themselves fully.

Hmmm. Food for thought.

Fortunately thyroid cancer is considered a ‘good’ cancer to get. It’s very treatable, without the need for chemotherapy, and it’s rarely terminal if caught early. And mine was caught very early.

Phew.

But, as you can imagine, it was a shock and it took some coming to terms with, and almost 5 years to fully recover from.

I painted all the way through

I had only just started working as an artist at the time I was diagnosed. So I had no in-work benefits to fall back on and didn’t really have a choice but to continue to paint whilst I received treatment and recovered.

But, looking back, I can see there may have actually been a positive to this.

When I was painting, which I did almost every day, for many hours, I was totally absorbed, and I was CREATING. It felt good. And I wasn’t worrying about or dwelling on the illness.

Making art has been used for years as a way to help people heal, emotionally, from illness and trauma:

The creative process, in itself, is part of our natural process of maintaining health and wellbeing. When we find a place and time to play – with paint, clay, movement, sound,- and when we have silenced the voices that tell us we can’t paint, or dance, or should be doing something ‘useful’; then the process becomes therapeutic, perhaps  soothing, cathartic, expressive, absorbing, releasing, surprising, extraordinary, transformative. The free flow of creativity in whatever form, is inherent in all of us, and once rediscovered can be a powerful resource.

– From the Making Art Personal website (an arts in health organisation promoting expression, communication and understanding for people affected by life threatening illness, in particular cancer)

And it’s also clear that regularly being creative is emotionally really positive, combatting the negative effects of stress on the body, and helping to keep people healthy.

For many people, a cancer diagnosis, or other serious illness, can force them to take stock of their lives, and how they are using their most precious of commodities – their time on the planet.

This little video explains this nicely:

So, whilst I don’t want to imply that getting cancer is a good thing – surviving a life-threatening illness can often be the thing that finally allows people to give themselves the permission to spend time on themselves, and on honouring the creative part of themselves.

And to feel gratitude for the parts of our bodies that are working well (brains, eyes and hands if we’re lucky enough to be able to paint!).

I know this is an emotional subject, but it’s one that affects so many of us so I thought I would share a little of my own story. I don’t know many people who haven’t been personally touched by cancer or serious illness. It’s a fact of life.

So I’d love to know if illness has spurred you, or a loved one, on to paint?

Please do let me know in the comments.

And if you’re lucky enough not to have been affected in this way, I hope this helps to motivate you to keep painting if it’s something you enjoy.

Because painting IS useful; it’s good for your health!

Happy painting,

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83 Comments

  1. Carrie Hayward on December 11, 2014 at 2:42 pm

    Many thanks for sharing this Anna – I hadn’t realised that you had been suffering with the big C. That was probably around the time that my family bought our beautiful pictures from you, and we would never have guessed that you were ill.

    My mother was diagnosed with Cancer in January of this year, thankfully she appears to now be completely recovered – perhaps she should take up painting, she’s always been pretty creative!

    I know that you will continue to inspire others who are suffering from illness and other problems such as mental health issues, to paint and release their inner selves. Many thanks again for sharing your story…

  2. Carrie Hayward on December 11, 2014 at 2:42 pm

    Many thanks for sharing this Anna – I hadn’t realised that you had been suffering with the big C. That was probably around the time that my family bought our beautiful pictures from you, and we would never have guessed that you were ill.

    My mother was diagnosed with Cancer in January of this year, thankfully she appears to now be completely recovered – perhaps she should take up painting, she’s always been pretty creative!

    I know that you will continue to inspire others who are suffering from illness and other problems such as mental health issues, to paint and release their inner selves. Many thanks again for sharing your story…

  3. Dan on December 11, 2014 at 2:44 pm

    Thanks for sharing your story Anna. Thats never easy to do. I finally started painting at 71 years old and have been at it 3 years now. It keeps me going and it’s really never is to late to start.
    I love your style of painting. Everyone says I need to paint loose but thats just not my way so it’s great to see paintings like yours and realize I’m going about it ok.
    Thanks
    Dan.

  4. Dan on December 11, 2014 at 2:44 pm

    Thanks for sharing your story Anna. Thats never easy to do. I finally started painting at 71 years old and have been at it 3 years now. It keeps me going and it’s really never is to late to start.
    I love your style of painting. Everyone says I need to paint loose but thats just not my way so it’s great to see paintings like yours and realize I’m going about it ok.
    Thanks
    Dan.

  5. Kathleen on December 11, 2014 at 3:26 pm

    Last year I took early retirement mainly due to health issues. I have had Chronic Fatigue Immune System Disorder and Fibromyalgia for 25 years. I could fight through it until recently. Now the effects are too great to push any more. I started painting and found your website and school. While painting I have no pain! It is destressing and detoxing my body and mind. I am thankful to God for leading me in this direction.

  6. Kathleen on December 11, 2014 at 3:26 pm

    Last year I took early retirement mainly due to health issues. I have had Chronic Fatigue Immune System Disorder and Fibromyalgia for 25 years. I could fight through it until recently. Now the effects are too great to push any more. I started painting and found your website and school. While painting I have no pain! It is destressing and detoxing my body and mind. I am thankful to God for leading me in this direction.

  7. Deborah Murphy on December 11, 2014 at 4:19 pm

    I too had cancer in 2008. For me it was breast cancer, I had just turned 40 and my two daughters were still in primary school. I can totally relate to what you’re saying! Painting was my way of ‘zoning out’ and I spent many an hour painting while awaiting test results. It was a welcome distraction and a way of staying calm and focused at a very difficult time,

  8. Deborah Murphy on December 11, 2014 at 4:19 pm

    I too had cancer in 2008. For me it was breast cancer, I had just turned 40 and my two daughters were still in primary school. I can totally relate to what you’re saying! Painting was my way of ‘zoning out’ and I spent many an hour painting while awaiting test results. It was a welcome distraction and a way of staying calm and focused at a very difficult time,

  9. Judi on December 11, 2014 at 4:40 pm

    Hello Anna
    Yes me too!!, found my cancer the night before my dad died 2011. It was truly “annus horibilis!” My father had been terribly ill for two years, my daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes feb 2011, my partner diagnosed with parkinsons 2008. Actually the night I spent in hospital having the lump removed felt like a night off!!! Getting over the stress and exhaustion took a while. When eventually recovered enough I came back to painting, having not touched it for 10 years. I had used oils, and used to paint large and wild! But became allergic to the paint. Always meant to try watercolour but such a difference from oils was hard. I have found your method and results very useful to build up my confidence., never thought I would have patience for botanical work. But as you say find therapy in the absorption of it all. Now I seem to be writing an essay so will stop. Many thanks and best wishes to you. I really admire your approach, it is an inspiration.

  10. Judi on December 11, 2014 at 4:40 pm

    Hello Anna
    Yes me too!!, found my cancer the night before my dad died 2011. It was truly “annus horibilis!” My father had been terribly ill for two years, my daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes feb 2011, my partner diagnosed with parkinsons 2008. Actually the night I spent in hospital having the lump removed felt like a night off!!! Getting over the stress and exhaustion took a while. When eventually recovered enough I came back to painting, having not touched it for 10 years. I had used oils, and used to paint large and wild! But became allergic to the paint. Always meant to try watercolour but such a difference from oils was hard. I have found your method and results very useful to build up my confidence., never thought I would have patience for botanical work. But as you say find therapy in the absorption of it all. Now I seem to be writing an essay so will stop. Many thanks and best wishes to you. I really admire your approach, it is an inspiration.

  11. Sue on December 11, 2014 at 6:33 pm

    I am a member of a group of ‘girls’, nine of us paint together every week. The painting together has help everyone at sometime, widowhood, cancer, depression etc. Getting together for a couple of hours takes ones mind off ones problems, and we always leave laughing. Laughing quite often at our efforts to produce masterpieces, but it doesn’t matter. The therapy of painting is the best therapy. X

  12. Sue on December 11, 2014 at 6:33 pm

    I am a member of a group of ‘girls’, nine of us paint together every week. The painting together has help everyone at sometime, widowhood, cancer, depression etc. Getting together for a couple of hours takes ones mind off ones problems, and we always leave laughing. Laughing quite often at our efforts to produce masterpieces, but it doesn’t matter. The therapy of painting is the best therapy. X

  13. Ruth on December 11, 2014 at 7:01 pm

    Dear Anna,
    Thank you so much for sharing this with us.
    What a lovely dimension you have added to your school.
    Somehow its more human and warm.
    Some things that are horribly difficult really are inspiration in disguise.
    Your art and creation of this course are pretty spectacular results.
    I salute you.
    And thank you.
    Best,
    Ruth

  14. Ruth on December 11, 2014 at 7:01 pm

    Dear Anna,
    Thank you so much for sharing this with us.
    What a lovely dimension you have added to your school.
    Somehow its more human and warm.
    Some things that are horribly difficult really are inspiration in disguise.
    Your art and creation of this course are pretty spectacular results.
    I salute you.
    And thank you.
    Best,
    Ruth

  15. Phil on December 11, 2014 at 7:44 pm

    Well, I’m in good company here ! I was diagnosed with cancer in 2011 and have had extensive treatment to cure me since then. I look upon having cancer as a seismic change to my life as I take nothing for granted and now more fulfilled than I’ve ever been. A major contributing factor is that I’ve taken up art post a 30 odd year hiatus since school. I’ve been lucky to take early retirement and am now studying for an art degree. I’m just loving doing art.

    • Anna Mason on January 2, 2017 at 1:27 pm

      Just reading through some old comments here – thank you for sharing this Phil and I hope you are still in good health and the art degree has been enjoyable. 🙂

  16. Phil on December 11, 2014 at 7:44 pm

    Well, I’m in good company here ! I was diagnosed with cancer in 2011 and have had extensive treatment to cure me since then. I look upon having cancer as a seismic change to my life as I take nothing for granted and now more fulfilled than I’ve ever been. A major contributing factor is that I’ve taken up art post a 30 odd year hiatus since school. I’ve been lucky to take early retirement and am now studying for an art degree. I’m just loving doing art.

  17. Lucinda on December 11, 2014 at 7:52 pm

    I know I’ve already replied to you Anna, but wanted to join in here too! Having had ovarian cancer in 2010, I know what it’s like to be scared, and learn to live and not worry about work etc and all the day to day stuff. I’ve just picked up the watercolour pencils for the first time, and would love to produce anything that I feel proud of! Your website and amazing watercolour studies are stunning. I’ve just purchased your book ‘The Modern Flower Painter’ which is inspirational. Thanks for all the interesting stuff you make time for to put on your website, I completely agree in the principle of absorbing the mind. Thank you!

    • Anna Mason on December 12, 2014 at 2:07 pm

      So pleased you are getting into painting Lucinda!

  18. Lucinda on December 11, 2014 at 7:52 pm

    I know I’ve already replied to you Anna, but wanted to join in here too! Having had ovarian cancer in 2010, I know what it’s like to be scared, and learn to live and not worry about work etc and all the day to day stuff. I’ve just picked up the watercolour pencils for the first time, and would love to produce anything that I feel proud of! Your website and amazing watercolour studies are stunning. I’ve just purchased your book ‘The Modern Flower Painter’ which is inspirational. Thanks for all the interesting stuff you make time for to put on your website, I completely agree in the principle of absorbing the mind. Thank you!

  19. Larry Weaver on December 11, 2014 at 8:33 pm

    I had a severe depression and anxiety attack 3 years ago, not the first unfortunately. I could not think further than 5 minutes ahead, I couldn’t see any way forward. A friend introduced me to Watercolour painting. The 2 hour lesson just flew by and I concentrated on painting and nothing else. It helped to calm me and I still enjoy the weekly lesson. I still have a long way to go in my recovery, but painting has given me confidence to socialise and feel more self confident.

  20. Larry Weaver on December 11, 2014 at 8:33 pm

    I had a severe depression and anxiety attack 3 years ago, not the first unfortunately. I could not think further than 5 minutes ahead, I couldn’t see any way forward. A friend introduced me to Watercolour painting. The 2 hour lesson just flew by and I concentrated on painting and nothing else. It helped to calm me and I still enjoy the weekly lesson. I still have a long way to go in my recovery, but painting has given me confidence to socialise and feel more self confident.

  21. Charles Bednarik on December 11, 2014 at 9:00 pm

    Anna
    The reason your are so successful and this site have great appeal and value is the “human” aspect of an artist’s life. The insights and little extras offered make painting successful and connected!
    Best to you and all the members in the holidays

    • Anna Mason on December 12, 2014 at 2:06 pm

      Thank you! Have a great Christmas yourself Charles!

  22. Charles Bednarik on December 11, 2014 at 9:00 pm

    Anna
    The reason your are so successful and this site have great appeal and value is the “human” aspect of an artist’s life. The insights and little extras offered make painting successful and connected!
    Best to you and all the members in the holidays

  23. Vivienne Adams on December 11, 2014 at 9:04 pm

    Anna, you are so right about the healing and therapeutic benefits of painting. I went through a traumatic experience, within the space of 14 months I suffered a very nasty experience with carbon monoxide poisoning (along with a bad burn up my shin – same accident), diagnosis of ovarian cancer & chemotherapy and then moving country. I had planned for 15 years to take up painting as a hobby but it was only after that lot that I felt I “deserved” to indulge myself. The painting served to take me away from myself and to make me enjoy something purely for pleasures sake. Now 9 years later, we’ve just moved house again and all my paints are stored away – I’m itching to paint. Good thing really as I felt I’d got a bit stale before moving. When I finally get my paints out again I can look on it as yet another new start. Good to hear you are over the cancer, it’s the most terrifying diagnosis.

    • Anna Mason on December 12, 2014 at 2:06 pm

      Sorry to hear about your experience Vivienne – however, if it got you to feel you were deserving of some creative ‘me-time’ then that’s all for the good. I hope you get to paint lots in 2015.

  24. Vivienne Adams on December 11, 2014 at 9:04 pm

    Anna, you are so right about the healing and therapeutic benefits of painting. I went through a traumatic experience, within the space of 14 months I suffered a very nasty experience with carbon monoxide poisoning (along with a bad burn up my shin – same accident), diagnosis of ovarian cancer & chemotherapy and then moving country. I had planned for 15 years to take up painting as a hobby but it was only after that lot that I felt I “deserved” to indulge myself. The painting served to take me away from myself and to make me enjoy something purely for pleasures sake. Now 9 years later, we’ve just moved house again and all my paints are stored away – I’m itching to paint. Good thing really as I felt I’d got a bit stale before moving. When I finally get my paints out again I can look on it as yet another new start. Good to hear you are over the cancer, it’s the most terrifying diagnosis.

  25. Deb R. on December 11, 2014 at 10:47 pm

    Thanks Anna – you are too young to have had a cancer diagnosis. I’ve discovered there’s really no “why” so I gave up trying to find someone to blame, including me. It just is. I paint and teach watercolor paint. And I’m an ovarian cancer survivor since May of this year. I too lose myself in the creative process and it’s so nice to take a vacation from the circling buzzards of thought. Thanks for your transparency – it matches your media of choice!

    • Anna Mason on December 12, 2014 at 2:04 pm

      Love that ‘circling buzzards of thought’ – it does feel like that sometimes doesn’t it! Delighted to hear you’re a survivor and that you clearly find lots of time to paint Deb.

  26. Deb R. on December 11, 2014 at 10:47 pm

    Thanks Anna – you are too young to have had a cancer diagnosis. I’ve discovered there’s really no “why” so I gave up trying to find someone to blame, including me. It just is. I paint and teach watercolor paint. And I’m an ovarian cancer survivor since May of this year. I too lose myself in the creative process and it’s so nice to take a vacation from the circling buzzards of thought. Thanks for your transparency – it matches your media of choice!

  27. Marilyn Kalbhenn on December 12, 2014 at 4:51 am

    Anna, thank you for sharing your story. I also have to have my thyroid removed, it wasn’t cancer. The Doctor thought if it was left much longer it was going to turn to cancer. It made me very ill. The process of creating art really helped me and continues to do so. At present I am involved with a group of artists who are guiding cancer clinic care givers through the process of creating art as a healing tool. To give them as care givers the chance to heal themselves. As their jobs at the clinic can take so much from them. So they can be stronger and better to meet the needs of their clients. This also gives me a chance to give back. Be well and take care. Marilyn

    • Anna Mason on December 12, 2014 at 2:02 pm

      Really interesting Marilyn, that sounds like great work you’re involved with.

  28. Marilyn Kalbhenn on December 12, 2014 at 4:51 am

    Anna, thank you for sharing your story. I also have to have my thyroid removed, it wasn’t cancer. The Doctor thought if it was left much longer it was going to turn to cancer. It made me very ill. The process of creating art really helped me and continues to do so. At present I am involved with a group of artists who are guiding cancer clinic care givers through the process of creating art as a healing tool. To give them as care givers the chance to heal themselves. As their jobs at the clinic can take so much from them. So they can be stronger and better to meet the needs of their clients. This also gives me a chance to give back. Be well and take care. Marilyn

  29. Kate on December 12, 2014 at 7:34 am

    Anna, I am yet another who had, and still has the big C. For me it was life changing. I had spent the last 22 years of my life as an accountant, and all my working life in an office. I always wanted to paint and draw, very jealous of my friends who went to art college in the early 70’s, and had dabbled on and off with various courses.

    I was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in 2007, and was forced into early retirement.

    Painting and drawing have become my life. I paint and draw every day.

    My life changed dramatically, but I am so happy. Good diet, exercise the body daily and exercise your mind, and you can overcome anything.

    I exercise my mind by painting and drawing, and wish I had taken this pathway years ago. I would have been poorer in the pocket, but overflowing in the richness of life.

    • Anna Mason on December 12, 2014 at 2:02 pm

      So inspiring, thank Kate. And how wonderful that you have found your time to draw & paint.

  30. Kate on December 12, 2014 at 7:34 am

    Anna, I am yet another who had, and still has the big C. For me it was life changing. I had spent the last 22 years of my life as an accountant, and all my working life in an office. I always wanted to paint and draw, very jealous of my friends who went to art college in the early 70’s, and had dabbled on and off with various courses.

    I was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in 2007, and was forced into early retirement.

    Painting and drawing have become my life. I paint and draw every day.

    My life changed dramatically, but I am so happy. Good diet, exercise the body daily and exercise your mind, and you can overcome anything.

    I exercise my mind by painting and drawing, and wish I had taken this pathway years ago. I would have been poorer in the pocket, but overflowing in the richness of life.

  31. Alex on December 12, 2014 at 10:27 am

    Dear Anna

    I am impressed with your positive attitude and also that of all the people who have replied to this post.

    I too am lucky enough to have survived cancer, and I also believe art to be very healing. Since I read Eckhart Tolle’s Power of Now, I am aware how better it feels to focus on what you are doing, rather than follow the constant stream of chatter in my head. Art allows you to totally focus on the present moment.

    It is the process that is important, less so the finished piece; but if you can produce anything – a drawing or painting or any other form of art – that gives someone else pleasure, however fleeting, then its value is priceless.

    Love Alex x

    • Anna Mason on December 12, 2014 at 2:00 pm

      Couldn’t agree more Alex – and I love Eckhart Tolle’s teachings, they’ve had a huge impact on me. Thanks for your comment.

  32. Alex on December 12, 2014 at 10:27 am

    Dear Anna

    I am impressed with your positive attitude and also that of all the people who have replied to this post.

    I too am lucky enough to have survived cancer, and I also believe art to be very healing. Since I read Eckhart Tolle’s Power of Now, I am aware how better it feels to focus on what you are doing, rather than follow the constant stream of chatter in my head. Art allows you to totally focus on the present moment.

    It is the process that is important, less so the finished piece; but if you can produce anything – a drawing or painting or any other form of art – that gives someone else pleasure, however fleeting, then its value is priceless.

    Love Alex x

  33. June mcDonald on December 12, 2014 at 11:27 am

    Hi Anna,
    Thank you for sharing something so intimate as your fight with the big C. Glad it worked out for you.
    I have had a mastectomy for breast cancer and am left with lymphoma. My daughter has had two thirteen hour operations for mouth cancer, and now cannot eat. But has to be fed through a tube attached to her tummy.
    But painting saved my sanity. I can disappear for a wee while into a quiet and comforting time, just for me.
    This is not all doom and gloom, and if it wasn’t for family and friends and the fabulous NHS it could have been so different. And as you say “Happy painting”

    • Anna Mason on December 12, 2014 at 1:59 pm

      Thanks for sharing June – so pleased painting has been of comfort.

  34. June mcDonald on December 12, 2014 at 11:27 am

    Hi Anna,
    Thank you for sharing something so intimate as your fight with the big C. Glad it worked out for you.
    I have had a mastectomy for breast cancer and am left with lymphoma. My daughter has had two thirteen hour operations for mouth cancer, and now cannot eat. But has to be fed through a tube attached to her tummy.
    But painting saved my sanity. I can disappear for a wee while into a quiet and comforting time, just for me.
    This is not all doom and gloom, and if it wasn’t for family and friends and the fabulous NHS it could have been so different. And as you say “Happy painting”

  35. mary dolling on December 12, 2014 at 8:08 pm

    thank you for sharing what you went throught i went through loss off my family throught cancer and i needed my art to focuse on. it helped me throught it is very healing

  36. mary dolling on December 12, 2014 at 8:08 pm

    thank you for sharing what you went throught i went through loss off my family throught cancer and i needed my art to focuse on. it helped me throught it is very healing

  37. Dee Hogan on December 12, 2014 at 11:36 pm

    I also had Thyroid cancer 13 years ago and now I have Cancer in the Uterus. After working for 31 years, I always promised myself I would paint when I retired. Well, I retired one year ago and I am so glad I joined your School a few months ago. Painting has really helped me through the past 2 months of tests and now I have some ‘projects’ to keep me busy when I am in recovery. I just love to ‘loose myself when I am painting’.
    Wishing you and all School Members a very joyful and happy Christmas.

  38. Dee Hogan on December 12, 2014 at 11:36 pm

    I also had Thyroid cancer 13 years ago and now I have Cancer in the Uterus. After working for 31 years, I always promised myself I would paint when I retired. Well, I retired one year ago and I am so glad I joined your School a few months ago. Painting has really helped me through the past 2 months of tests and now I have some ‘projects’ to keep me busy when I am in recovery. I just love to ‘loose myself when I am painting’.
    Wishing you and all School Members a very joyful and happy Christmas.

  39. Mayann Myers on December 13, 2014 at 3:54 pm

    I started painting in the early seventies and over the years starting and stopping. Raising four kids took top priority. I have always been a caretaker. Taking care of my husband after heart attacks, helping my mother care for her husband with Alzheimer’s until he died, later caring for my mother until she died, and helping raise a couple of grandchildren a long the way. 2009 my husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and 2012 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had a bilateral mastectomy that July. It was devastating. I’ve suffered depression, after all I lost part of my body. My husband is a one day at a time illness. Our lives have changed drastically. My doctor said firmly that it was way past time for me to take care of myself or else. My neighbor told me about a painting group that meets every Thursday. I started going about six weeks ago and I have taken up trying to watercolor. I am in a group of people that love to help teach me and all love to laugh. It doesn’t get any better than painting and laughing. This is saving my life.

  40. Mayann Myers on December 13, 2014 at 3:54 pm

    I started painting in the early seventies and over the years starting and stopping. Raising four kids took top priority. I have always been a caretaker. Taking care of my husband after heart attacks, helping my mother care for her husband with Alzheimer’s until he died, later caring for my mother until she died, and helping raise a couple of grandchildren a long the way. 2009 my husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and 2012 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had a bilateral mastectomy that July. It was devastating. I’ve suffered depression, after all I lost part of my body. My husband is a one day at a time illness. Our lives have changed drastically. My doctor said firmly that it was way past time for me to take care of myself or else. My neighbor told me about a painting group that meets every Thursday. I started going about six weeks ago and I have taken up trying to watercolor. I am in a group of people that love to help teach me and all love to laugh. It doesn’t get any better than painting and laughing. This is saving my life.

  41. Ngaire Magalotti on December 16, 2014 at 5:22 am

    Hi Anna. I was about half-way through my shiny shell painting in August when I suffered a stroke – couldn’t hold a brush – and although I slowly recovered from that, further tests revealed that I had kidney cancer. I had an operation to remove that kidney on 1st Dec. and am currently recovering quite well and look forward to getting back to my painting in the next week or so – at least before Christmas. I have been very fortunate and am pleased to have such a wonderful occupation to come back to.

    • Anna Mason on December 29, 2014 at 2:50 pm

      Good luck with your recovery Ngaire. I’m sure painting will help you 🙂

  42. Ngaire Magalotti on December 16, 2014 at 5:22 am

    Hi Anna. I was about half-way through my shiny shell painting in August when I suffered a stroke – couldn’t hold a brush – and although I slowly recovered from that, further tests revealed that I had kidney cancer. I had an operation to remove that kidney on 1st Dec. and am currently recovering quite well and look forward to getting back to my painting in the next week or so – at least before Christmas. I have been very fortunate and am pleased to have such a wonderful occupation to come back to.

  43. Sharon on December 23, 2014 at 9:34 pm

    Thanks for sharing how art has helped you. I was so excited to see someone paint in a realistic style and who loves roses. We have much in common. I can’t wait for your class.

  44. Sharon on December 23, 2014 at 9:34 pm

    Thanks for sharing how art has helped you. I was so excited to see someone paint in a realistic style and who loves roses. We have much in common. I can’t wait for your class.

  45. Shawdian on July 6, 2016 at 12:08 pm

    I had no idea about you having had Cancer. I am so pleased you have fully recovered. Art is a wonderuful way to release the spirit and very calming. I use painting as part of ‘relaxing time’ to cope with my illness. I have a thyroid problem ! and another illness that puts me in chronic pain 24/7. For many years I did not pick up a paint brush simply because I was never satisfied with any of the results of my work and thought it pointless. Then one day feeling quite poorly and sorry for myself , I got out my paint box, my lovely brushes and some gorgeous Indian rag paper a dear friend sent me for Christmas. Just to FEEL of those delightful art materials gave me a great lift and before I knew it, I had painted several pictures. Nothing fantastic but bright with colour and lively studies of my garden. Immediately following this burst of art work, I began to medically improve and never looked back. Painting gives me an extraordinary feeling of goodness and excitement (like when I open a new book) the anticipation of filling the blank rag paper with colour sends a healing thrill through me and I feel much better. I believe it healed you too. I love the look and feel of a good brush, a sheet of good watercolour paper and a tin palet full of colourful pans, then to create something with these little luxuries, makes me feel re charged and at peace with myself.

  46. […] of doing it – which was a very helpful distraction through a horrible divorce (as it had been when I had had cancer a few years […]

  47. Bron on January 5, 2017 at 8:15 pm

    Very interesting that the Thyroid is in the 5th chakra. I recently had to have one of 4 Parathyroid glands removed due to a benign tumour. After the operation I found I HAD to do everything. I started obsessively drawing and painting with watercolours, sewing, buying old furniture and restoring peices. My daughter actually commented that it was if I had all this creativity bottled up inside me. So maybe the 5th chakra really is the site of our self expression. Im having more problems with the remaining parathyroid glands, so heaven only knows how I will be able to express myself after that surgery

  48. Karen on January 6, 2017 at 6:52 am

    Dear Anna, your readers may be interested in searching the web for ……..Minding Your Mitochondria by Dr Terry Wahls YouTube

  49. athinasoultani on March 31, 2018 at 8:10 pm

    I didn’t knew all of these Anna and i am sad that i read these .I hope always God protect you really!!!You are great artist.I know how you felt because of my work .I work in a hospital and because of my work i try to help people every day .I see people every day with cancer suffering so i understand how you felt.I hope God always protect you really !!!!

  50. Patricia Johnson on February 21, 2019 at 5:00 pm

    Hello Anna,. I had terminal cancer when I was 24, luckily we had decided to have our family early. We had two boys 4 and 18 months old when I became ill. The doctor tried everything and more, all the experimental and new drugs and treatments. None worked.and they sent me home to die. Art has always been in my life from day one.and each day a blessing with art at the heart of my life. My rock my husband and art have brought me to 47 more years of love, painting,and grandchildren. One must never lay down the sword or paint brush and give up, but everyday should be joyful, celebrate with colour. We are so lucky, because we have been given a second chance to appreciate all the world has to offer. Happy painting. Pat

    • Anna Mason on February 22, 2019 at 8:54 am

      Wow what an amazing story Patricia, thanks for sharing that. So happy for you that you survived (and thrived) after such a dreadful diagnosis. xx

  51. Smudger on June 6, 2019 at 3:12 pm

    Anna, you are a true inspiration and so are the other members whose stories I have come across this afternoon. I’ve often pondered how these life threatening and debilitating illnesses and diseases can change our lives for the better. I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis in 2014 which led to me giving up work. In giving up work it made me question my worth and my purpose. Then I found your website. I have always been able to draw and paint but had never been able to give it the time to focus on. Ironically, having to give up work was actually a positive as I have focused on my art. Thanks to your online school my confidence and ability has increased. I have just had my first original piece framed and will be entering it in a competition/open exhibition. Thank you to you Anna, your team and the members on this online school who have taught me so much. Painting gives us purpose.

  52. Liubov on April 14, 2020 at 4:59 pm

    Dear Anna,

    I am very impressed with your message. Yes, they say art can have theraputical effect, art can heal, art can soothe pain. There’s art therapy invented after all.

    But that´s not the same as hearing from you, a real, not hipothetical person, that you had cancer and now years after we can see and admire all the fruits of your great work.
    I am that person who feels “I can´t sit and paint, I have to do usefull things now”. And feeling bad about not sitting and paiting. Waiting for some other day.
    Thank you for making me think about it again and see.

    Wishing all the best for you and your family,
    Liuba

  53. Jo Ann Frommer Rom on April 14, 2020 at 6:47 pm

    So impressive . . . I have been painting most of my life, however, when my husband was diagnosed with stage 4 Sarcoma in his leg, I really found myself painting more than usual, because I was working also at the time. But in any case the process is very healing in so many ways and it got us through. I felt I needed to be positive about every aspect of our lives.

    j

  54. Anita visram on April 14, 2020 at 6:50 pm

    Hi Anna, I lived in Saudi Arabia for a number of years in the 80’s. Recently I had some lumps and scabs on my face that refused to heal. Went to the doctor and was told its skin cancer most probably because I lived in Saudi more than 30 years ago! Got the shock of my life.
    They have been cut out now so I’m hoping they won’t return. I was painting through the treatment. I found it relaxing.
    All the best to you and your fans. Regards Anita

  55. Jeanne Stanford on April 14, 2020 at 10:32 pm

    Anna, I worked in advertising my entire career. I even had my own very stressful freelance business for 8 years. Being in business on your own, especially in advertising, made it imperative that you be able to work day and night and weekends or lose the business. The stress of my computer or printer not working and deadlines was impossible to deal with. Then my husband died and emotional doesn’t begin to describe my condition. Then a miracle happened. My computer died. I took that as a message from God that it was time to do something different. I had always wanted to paint. In advertising, I was always doing what the client wanted. Now I was able to do what I wanted. I reinvented myself through a number of jobs (home organizing angel, jewelry maker, scrapbook sales associate and maker of all things clay), after the computer’s death and once I remarried and moved south to Georgia and retired, it was time to paint. I can’t tell you how happy this has made me. i wish I had done it so much sooner. I highly recommend painting as a stress reducer. Especially now during the virus shut down. I have even painted this years Christmas card already and have gotten many commissions to paint neighbors dogs since I have since moved to St Augustine. FL 5 months ago. I’ve been painting now for 6 years and have run out of storage space. lol.

  56. gray on April 15, 2020 at 2:11 pm

    i had thyroid cancer at 14

  57. Roland J Rankin on April 16, 2020 at 1:44 am

    Hello Anna, I pray that you and your family are well and safe. I started china painting then went to oil a few years back, It would be a way my wife and I could get out and travel to go to different shows, kinda like week-end vacation after the children have grown.As soon as we got started she was diagnosed with leukemia, and for six long years we were together every evening and I would paint and she would be close by watching, somehow I knew that my Lord had given us painting to comfort us and to let us be together as time went by. We were married more than forty five years after she passed their was no reason for me to paint. Three years ago I had a severe heart attach, and now suffer with heart disease, asthma, and c.o.p.d. It has been very difficult , but I have started to paint again, watercolor is a new challenge, especially realism, it’s like trying to catch a raindrop between two fingers and hold it there.This challenge has been able to set my mind free and let me create what my heart sees so I can share that view with others. Thank you for helping to guide me through this challenge.

  58. […] If you LOVE painting, or believe you will, please don’t put off doing it until some future date when you think it’ll be more convenient to do it. Make the most of your health now. It can’t be taken for granted (something I learned in my late 20s). […]

  59. Wendy on April 6, 2022 at 2:49 am

    Dear Anna,
    I also have had thyroid cancer, and I have learned so much about myself, my spirituality, and good health through my recovery. I am also a watercolorist and have used painting and gardening as therapy. Kindred spirits! Your message has given me courage. I am 64 this year, and I will be taking an early retirement to be able to pursue my artistic lifestyle.

    Thank you, Anna, and may your life be richly blessed.

  60. […] of doing it – which was a very helpful distraction through a horrible divorce (as it had been when I had had cancer a few years […]

  61. Paula SOSA on December 14, 2023 at 7:19 pm

    Hi Anna. Thanks for your courage to tell us about your history. My eyes got teary-eyed during the read…I’m really happy to you be here, showing us your victory and teaching us your “collorful cure method”. I had a bad story on health too, Now I’m 31 years, but when I had 23 years I “take” Guillain Barrè, I loose all my movements including wing, I had 3 long cardiac arrests…I lost weight, all hand movements and after 3 months, in 2016, I get out of Intensive Treatment on Hospital and returned to learn all…how eat, how write…and on that moment I felt as break down, and only dream with art could me show a new hopes on life… my big wish, when I stayed lyend down on enfermary, were to paint…includ painting all the hospital with beutiful flowers (I kept imagining this)…

    Aniway, I hope a lot of the day I have now…
    And I thank you so much to explain your method, because I percebed a calm and sweet evolution.

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