Inspiration Archives

Navigating Through the Storm: Our Journey from Traditional Cancer Treatments to the Hope of Cannabis

Mar 5, 2024

In December 2022, our lives took an unexpected turn when my partner was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer. The months that followed were a whirlwind of radiation, hospitalizations, and an unyielding quest for healing. Yet, amidst the traditional treatments and their daunting side effects, we’ve embarked on a journey of discovery and hope through holistic and alternative medicine, with cannabis at the heart of our exploration.

The Challenge of Conventional Paths

After a harrowing three weeks in the hospital due to infections and the subsequent battle with a feeding tube, traditional treatments had to be paused. My partner, having dwindled to 130 pounds and confined to bed for seven weeks, faced the additional trial of adrenal cancer that metastasized from the lower part of his esophagus. The physical toll was immense, yet it was the standstill in traditional treatments that urged us to look beyond conventional medicine.

Turning to Cannabis and Alternative Therapies

Our search for alternatives led us to cannabis, a beacon of relief in a sea of pain and discomfort. Remarkably, it offered my partner solace from pain that opiates could not quell. This pivotal experience opened our eyes to the potential of holistic therapies and the importance of integrating them into our battle against cancer.

Among the wealth of information and theories we explored, Thomas Seyfried’s metabolic approach to cancer stood out. His work, which views cancer through the lens of metabolic disease, has not just informed us; it has transformed our approach to fighting this illness. The goal now is not just to treat but to heal, focusing on weight gain, strength recovery, and a gradual return to vitality through personalized care plans that include physical and occupational therapy.

A Journey of Hope and Determination

Our path has been anything but linear. Yet, in the face of adversity, we’ve found strength in each other and in the community that surrounds us. Cannabis has not just offered pain relief; it has opened a door to a world of alternative therapies that promise more than survival—they offer a chance at a life lived with joy, despite cancer.

As we continue to navigate this journey, our resolve is only strengthened by the lessons learned and the small victories along the way. We are more committed than ever to exploring every avenue that could bring comfort and recovery. Our story is one of hope, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of healing, guided by the belief that even in the darkest times, there are rays of light to be found.

To those walking a similar path, know you are not alone. Together, we can face the uncertainties of cancer with courage and a spirit of openness, exploring every possibility that lies on the horizon.

Stella Adler: The Beacon for Every Aspiring Artist

Oct 22, 2023

In the vast tapestry of artistic legends, Stella Adler stands out not only for her extraordinary contributions to the world of theatre but also for her unyielding belief in the power of storytelling. For artists who find themselves doubting the value of their work or struggling to find their voice, Adler’s legacy is a shining beacon of inspiration.

“Life beats down and crushes the soul, and art reminds you that you have one.” This quote by Adler is a profound testament to the undying spirit of every artist who has ever picked up a brush, a pen, a camera, or taken to the stage. Life, with all its trials, tribulations, and tragedies, can often feel overwhelming. Yet, it’s through art that we rediscover ourselves, rekindle our spirits, and reclaim our identity.

Stella Adler, with her unique methods and deep commitment to acting as an art form, championed the idea that artists are not mere entertainers. They are visionaries who have the power to hold up a mirror to society, reflecting its beauty and flaws. They tell stories that can heal wounds, ignite passions, and inspire change. It’s through these stories we find solace, understanding, and hope.

For every artist feeling despondent, questioning their place in the world, or wondering if their work matters, remember Adler’s words. Art is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s the balm for crushed souls, the fire for dulled spirits, and the voice for silenced hearts.

In today’s rapidly changing world, where noise often drowns out truth, and shadows often obscure light, your art matters more than ever. Like Stella Adler, stand firm in your conviction, embrace your unique voice, and continue to tell your stories. They are the lifeline that connects us, the thread that binds our shared humanity, and the beacon that guides us through the darkest nights.

So, dear artists, let Adler’s legacy inspire you to rise, create, and remind the world of the indomitable spirit that lies within each of us. Because in art, we not only find ourselves but also each other.

Learn More About Stella:
Stella Adler: Awake and Dream!

Journey to Rita: Art, Ancestry, and Adventures in Colorado’s Mountains

Aug 5, 2023

The universe often communicates through subtle signs and grand gestures alike.

A recent grand gesture came in the form of whispers about a new sculpture being crafted in Colorado’s mountains. Curiosity piqued, I learned that this sculpture, named Rita the Rock Planter, was the work of the talented Danish artist, Thomas Dambo. Nestled in Victor, Colorado, Rita stands as an artful beacon and has quickly become a hiking destination, joining the ranks of the popular Breckenridge troll, also created by Dambo.

As a fellow artist and a descendent of Scandanivan heritage, I felt an innate connection to this creation. Trolls, after all, are woven deeply into the tapestry of Norwegian folklore. With this ancestral link, my encounter with Rita took on a profound significance.

Hearing that Dambo would address the community, I seized the opportunity to attend. There, Dambo shared an enlightening tidbit. He said, “Trolls know stones have no legs, so it’s rude to remove one stone from a family of stones. Rita likes to reconnect them and plant them with their family.” This insight enriched my understanding of Rita’s purpose. Additionally, Rita’s creation is a chapter in Dambo’s broader “Way of the Bird King” project. In this ambitious endeavor, he journeys from Vermont to Washington, constructing ten trolls and thousands of birdhouses in between. At this point, he has manifested an impressive 119 sculptures and birdhouses with just six more to complete the series.

Motivated by these revelations and a delightful breakfast sandwich from Wendy’s (a personal favorite over McDonald’s), I embarked on a 0.4-mile hike to meet Rita in person. Even with my knee challenges and my partner Tim’s battle with cancer, we marched on. The morning of August 5, 2023, symbolized more than just a hike; it was a testament to living fully and embracing each moment.

Rita’s wooden grandeur compelled me to capture her essence through my lens. One particular snapshot inspired ‘Rita in Bloom’, a vibrant digital painting that’s now available through JolieArtPrints.

This entire odyssey affirmed my belief art is a narrative. It’s a conduit that channels memories, experiences, and an artist’s journey into relatable tales. Rita, with her sustainable wooden framework, isn’t just an art piece. She’s a story, a lesson, and an inspiration.

And as seasons transform, I aim to chronicle Rita’s evolution, solidifying our bond and celebrating life’s rich tapestry. Each visit underscores my commitment to personal growth and appreciation for art’s role in community-building.

As I journey forward, I anticipate the tales my art will narrate and the many more trails Tim and I will tread upon in our beloved Colorado.

[Visit Gold Camp District Impact Group]

[Purchase a ‘Rita in Bloom’ Print]