Faith's L and R shoulder surgeries

Faith Taylor is organizing this fundraiser.

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Asking for help is one of the hardest things to do. I’ve always taken pride in being ‘strong’ , doing things on my own and finding creative solutions to obstacles in my way. I don’t remember ever asking for help in this way....

Today, I am feeling quite humbled and vulnerable as I have decided that asking for help just might be the ‘strong’ thing to do.

I have been an artist for most of my adult life and every day I am well aware of how blessed I am to be able to do what I love to do. Being self employed is my dream and I have worked hard to make this a reality and I am very proud of the time, dedication and hard work I have put into my business.

Early December 2016 I hurt my right shoulder and painting became quite difficult. The doctor explained that surgery would probably be the best option. Not wanting to face that reality I ignored his suggestion and continued to work daily in my studio located in the garage attached to the place I rent. It was only about three weeks later I was simply raising my left arm and I heard a “rip”. The pain was intense and at that instant I lost the ability to raise my arm. Another trip to the doctor and again he spoke of surgery and again, I ignored the suggestion. While being self employed is wonderful it also means NO sick days, no time off and the thought of being unable to work and pay my bills was not an option I felt I could consider.

Feeling ( knowing) I had no choice, I decided to work and work hard for the next two months. I adjusted the way I painted, the height of my paintings, I often worked until I couldn’t see through my tears of pain.

Until last week....

I went in for an MRI on my left shoulder. It appears that what would have been a ‘normal’ rotator cuff surgery is now a more difficult surgery because I allowed too much time to pass. The doctor explained that recovery will be intense and extended due to the additional damage. He then explained that as soon as my left shoulder has recovered enough (a minimum of 6 months) I will need to have a similar surgery on my right shoulder, my painting arm. Which means an additional 6 months not being able to work in my studio and more physical therapy.

I WILL heal and this all will pass. I am strong and determined (obviously to a fault). Until then it will be a year of struggles physically and financially and that is where I find it so humbling to ask for help.

I have created this account to humbly ask for help with my medical expenses associated with both surgeries, the doctor visits, the MRIs, physical therapy that will occur outside my insurance coverage, some living expenses and an occasional studio assistant.

I am humbled beyond words and I thank you in advance for taking time to read my story. I appreciate any help you are able to give be it a donation, a purchase of art from my website, sharing my story and sharing the link to my website. Your good thoughts will be received with the love in which they are sent.

Gratefully.

Faith Taylor
www.faithtaylor.com