Letter from Cindy Lazard-Hunt (Walter’s Sister)

Dear Supporters,

Picture this: It’s a Tuesday evening, and my husband and I arrive home to find 26 wrappers of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in the trash. We called Walter into the room to ask him if he had eaten 26 PB&J sandwiches, and his response was simply, “I don’t know.” This was our first sign that my brother, who was born with Down Syndrome, was showing signs of dementia. He was later formally diagnosed with dementia.

Prior to his diagnosis, Walter participated in a daily sports program for special needs adults at the Chicago Park District. However, as his reflexes and responses slowed down, the sports program became very difficult for him. After his diagnosis, my husband and I knew it was time to consider different activities for Walter.

We were introduced to The Arts of Life by Walter’s roommate, Stefan, who is an artist at their Chicago Studio. Stefan’s sister spoke highly of the program, so we decided to check it out with Walter.

We were greeted by Studio Manager Caitlin, who welcomed us warmly with open arms (Walter is a hugger). After introductions and an overview of The Arts of Life, we toured the studio. Artist Dave, one of the most charismatic individuals you will ever meet, gave us a genuine tour. He was familiar with his fellow artists and their work, including the open mic area where the band rehearses and performs, and the art gallery where he showed us all the completed works of art.

Despite this being Walter’s first visit, he felt very comfortable with everyone there—the artists, staff, and volunteers. I was most impressed by the studio’s philosophy of equality and collective decision-making, which explains the pride and ownership the artists have about their place of work.

There was a six-month gap between our visit to The Arts of Life and when Walter joined. During this time, Walter’s dementia progressed, making him less talkative and more withdrawn. The previous day program he attended was secure but not motivating. When Walter started at The Arts of Life, he acclimated quickly to his new community. He began engaging with new friends, getting to know the staff and volunteers, and learning how to paint. Within a few months, Walter developed his own painting style. He enjoys going to The Arts of Life each day to create art and spend time with his friends, especially Angela.

The Arts of Life is not just an art program for adults with or without disabilities, but a place where Walter and other artists find independence, self-confidence, and ambition. This inspired me to become a board member—I wanted to be part of the energy and enthusiasm that makes The Arts of Life a special place.

I cannot imagine what we would do without The Arts of Life; this program has been so stimulating for Walter. I hope you will join me in supporting this wonderful program in the City of Chicago. By investing in The Arts of Life, you will help Walter and others like him reach their full potential.

Your gift starts today:

• A tax-deductible donation of $25 provides enough funds to throw a birthday party for one artist.
• $600 secures transportation for an artist to/from The Arts of Life for six months.
• $5,000 equips one studio with an entire year’s worth of art supplies (paints, pencils, brushes, & canvases).

Sincerely,

Cindy Lazard-Hunt
Executive Board Member
The Arts of Life