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Sketches were done in a 4.7” x 4.7” hardbound Lightwish journal filled with 140 lb. 100% cotton paper. They were drawn using permanent black ink. Color was added using watercolor and Staedtler Triplus Fineliner colored pens.

In 2023, when my husband was diagnosed with heart problems which would require open-heart surgery, I decided to chronicle our experiences in an illustrated journal. The story that follows was written, drawn, and painted in real time while I waited during the long hours of diagnostic and pre-op appointments, surgery, and recovery. Sketching and journaling became my therapy. It offered me an effective way to deal with the worry, fear, and uncertainty which were an unavoidable part of having a loved one undergo critical lifesaving surgery. It gave us both something positive to focus on during very challenging times and now stands as testimony to the world-class care he received and the courage he showed throughout this life-changing experience.