Remembering Sandra Conners: Advocate & Beloved Community Member

2016 has been a challenging year at The Arts of Life. Last month, Sandra Conners (mother of Chicago Studio artist Guy Conners) passed away after battling cancer. She was a strong advocate for The Arts of Life and a champion for people with disabilities. This was a deep loss for the studio, as Sandra was a beloved member of our community.”Sandra’s deep care and concern for each member of the community was evident in everything she did.  She was thoughtful in her feedback about supporting Guy’s continued growth and that of the studio as a whole.  It was a pleasure to know her and work with her.  We will always remember her, and her example of warmth and compassion!” – Catherine Norcott, Chicago Studio ManagerOn a personal level, Sandra was the first person at The Arts of Life who made me feel like I was a part of the community. At the time of the 2014 Award Show, I was new to The Arts of Life and had only been volunteering for a few weeks. As everyone was catching up with familiar faces, Sandra came up to me, introduced herself, and immediately treated me like we’d known each other for ages. She was engaging and warm-hearted and reminded me a lot of my own mom, also an avid runner. Sandra made me feel at ease and welcome in a room full of strangers and I’ll always be thankful for that.I continued to be in touch with Sandra while working with Guy for his marathon, storytelling video, and recent Shamrock Shuffle. Whenever I’d see Sandra and Rick, she’d greet me with a hug, lovely conversation, and questions about the status of The Arts of Life having a Chicago Marathon Team (her idea). Sandra will be missed greatly by everyone at The Arts of Life!- Sara Bemer, Development Coordinator