My League Story: Adult Medical Day, Shane H.

For Shane, his most recent work of art is more than a gorgeous summer beach scene; it represents a journey of pain, self-discovery, and growth during a challenging time in his life. On top of difficulties caused by the pandemic, Shane and his family have had a trying year. He admittedly has not been the best version of himself and is learning to be a better person through the support of League staff, his physical therapists, and his art. 

Shane began his painting as an opportunity to improve his communication and rediscover the joy of helping others. His initial thoughts were of some place tropical because of his love of water and swimming. Though the painting took him three months to complete, the process was what made it beautiful to Shane. 

When he worked on his painting with The League’s Therapeutic Recreation team, he felt as if he was improving himself each day, little by little. Shane is of the mindset that no one is perfect but we are all teachers and have a responsibility to hold each other accountable for our actions and attitudes. As a person with “unique abilities,” Shane knows that we need physical, mental, and emotional support in order to learn, grow, and achieve our goals. 

The painting titled “Baptizing & Bathing in My Sweet Redemption” is a nod to Shane’s past and an even more revealing picture of his present state of mind. The cerulean and turquoise hues of his ocean exemplify his focused determination to share his personal progress and dispel the stigma of the word “disability.” The horizon line is clear and indicative of his intrinsic optimism despite his personal challenges.