Art vs Pancreas
As an artist, creating something that brings a smile to someone's face is the ultimate goal. But what happens when you suffer from chronic pain that threatens to derail your passion and creativity? For me, this is a daily struggle as I deal with chronic pancreatitis.
Chronic pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that doesn't heal or improve over time. Its symptoms can be debilitating and include intense abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and fatigue. While it can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, the pain and exhaustion it causes can make it difficult to focus on anything else.
But for me, creating whimsical things is my escape from the pain. It's my way of pushing past the constant discomfort and finding joy in the world around me. When I'm painting, drawing or creating something new, I forget about the pain for a while and immerse myself in the process of creation.
I often draw inspiration from nature and fairy tales, and I try to infuse my creations with a sense of wonder and whimsy. My art is colorful and energetic, filled with fantastical creatures and dreamlike landscapes. My hope is that by sharing these works with others, I can bring a bit of joy and magic into their lives as well.
Of course, there are days when the pain and fatigue are too much for me to handle. On those days, I allow myself to rest and focus on self-care. It's important to listen to your body and take care of yourself, especially when dealing with chronic illness.
But on the days when I'm feeling well enough to create, nothing can stop me. Despite the challenges that come with chronic pancreatitis, I'm determined to keep making whimsical things and bringing joy into the world.
In the end, being a professional artist who suffers from chronic pancreatitis has taught me a valuable lesson. It's reminded me that even in the midst of pain and struggle, there is always room for wonder and creativity. And as long as I keep pushing forward, there will always be something beautiful waiting on the other side.
Thank you so much for your patience,
XO, Ashe Wolf