Ruth Bricknell & Tony Warren
The Story
Ruth Bricknell
West Bloomfield, Michigan
Survivor
Twist on Cancer: The most difficult experience of my life was being diagnosed with Colon Cancer. Having chemo treatments for 6 months and then 5 years later being diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma breast cancer on the left breast. There was no question in my mind once diagnosed with breast cancer to have a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery even though it was only on the left side. The first thing I would say to someone that would ask me about my experience is to stay positive the best you can as you go through the diagnosis and then the treatments. Once diagnosed get a second opinion and research so you know what you are facing.If you have a family history push getting tested early so you have a base to go from. Women do not miss a year of mammograms as I saw the current one and the previous year comparisons. The previous year was totally clear and the next year, I had cancer. I’m so very thankful to be a survivor and be here to share these years watching my children becoming adults and living wonderful lives. I’m extremely lucky.
Survivor
Twist on Cancer: The most difficult experience of my life was being diagnosed with Colon Cancer. Having chemo treatments for 6 months and then 5 years later being diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma breast cancer on the left breast. There was no question in my mind once diagnosed with breast cancer to have a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery even though it was only on the left side. The first thing I would say to someone that would ask me about my experience is to stay positive the best you can as you go through the diagnosis and then the treatments. Once diagnosed get a second opinion and research so you know what you are facing.If you have a family history push getting tested early so you have a base to go from. Women do not miss a year of mammograms as I saw the current one and the previous year comparisons. The previous year was totally clear and the next year, I had cancer. I’m so very thankful to be a survivor and be here to share these years watching my children becoming adults and living wonderful lives. I’m extremely lucky.
Tony Warren
Tonywarrenfineart.com
“Flip Side”
Conte crayon on gesso panel
Framed 16'wx20'h Unframed 7"wx10.25"h
$300
Artist Statement: Our life experiences become the defining moments in the quest to reach the inner core of the viewer. The artist's definitive moment becomes the fuel, and the vehicle of self expression, on the road to the viewer's psyche. If I have touched the heart or moved the soul I have accomplished what I have set out to do. I am merely the conduit. For God both creates the subject and stirs the soul to its interpretation.
Ruth Bricknell and I had a great first call a little while ago. I knew right then, we had a lot in common, as we both love the water. We both especially love Harsens Island, Michigan. Ruth sent me a nice PDF file with all the essential info: pictures of her family, and a walk through the journey via the photos. Ruth is a survivor, and I knew that in the first few moments of our conversation. She also gets right to the point - I like that. I have had so much cancer in my own family that it was easy to relate to Ruth's story. Cancer is so devastating. It can easily get wrapped into poor-me syndrome. The best part about Ruth's story, especially the photos she provided, was the positive nature she displays and zest for life amid such devastating news. Ruth concentrates on her family, friends and the things she loves.I created "Flip Side'' focusing on the positive side of Ruth's outcome via her beautiful smile and the incredibly positive inspiring person that she is. I am so blessed to have this opportunity to share this experience with Ruth and her friends. Thank you Jeff, Ruth, and the Brushes with Cancer program for this experience. Here's to you, Ruth, and your journey. I hope you enjoy "Flip Side,'' as you are living proof that our spirit can be indomitable. May God Bless you always. Sincerely, Tony Warren
“Flip Side”
Conte crayon on gesso panel
Framed 16'wx20'h Unframed 7"wx10.25"h
$300
Artist Statement: Our life experiences become the defining moments in the quest to reach the inner core of the viewer. The artist's definitive moment becomes the fuel, and the vehicle of self expression, on the road to the viewer's psyche. If I have touched the heart or moved the soul I have accomplished what I have set out to do. I am merely the conduit. For God both creates the subject and stirs the soul to its interpretation.
Ruth Bricknell and I had a great first call a little while ago. I knew right then, we had a lot in common, as we both love the water. We both especially love Harsens Island, Michigan. Ruth sent me a nice PDF file with all the essential info: pictures of her family, and a walk through the journey via the photos. Ruth is a survivor, and I knew that in the first few moments of our conversation. She also gets right to the point - I like that. I have had so much cancer in my own family that it was easy to relate to Ruth's story. Cancer is so devastating. It can easily get wrapped into poor-me syndrome. The best part about Ruth's story, especially the photos she provided, was the positive nature she displays and zest for life amid such devastating news. Ruth concentrates on her family, friends and the things she loves.I created "Flip Side'' focusing on the positive side of Ruth's outcome via her beautiful smile and the incredibly positive inspiring person that she is. I am so blessed to have this opportunity to share this experience with Ruth and her friends. Thank you Jeff, Ruth, and the Brushes with Cancer program for this experience. Here's to you, Ruth, and your journey. I hope you enjoy "Flip Side,'' as you are living proof that our spirit can be indomitable. May God Bless you always. Sincerely, Tony Warren