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Diagnosed with Stage 3 Melanoma in 2022, Type I diabetes created by cancer treatment, and then a cancer recurrence in my lymph nodes in 2025, I continue to turn to making art as part of my coping practice.
The psychological impact of cancer, at least for me, has been pervasive and relentless. Easily overwhelmed, sleep difficulties, irritability, anger, and ongoing memory issues, PTSD is the body's natural reaction to trauma. Daily combinations of meditation, yoga, therapy, nature, and the support of family and friends all help me to varying degrees on any given day. However, making art has become a central anchor in my treatment.
Most, if not all, of my art is biographical. Much of what I create today helps process the trauma. Perhaps by sharing, I can help reduce the stigma associated with mental health conditions.
Self-care is a priority for anyone trying to survive the ongoing psychological impact of cancer.
None of this will cure cancer or diabetes, but the slow, deliberate process of making art helps me be present today--a better version of who I can be for myself, family, and friends.
To connect with me, you could send a nice note to P.O. Box 193, Kemblesville, PA 19347 or use artbybjk [at] gmail [dot] com.
You can also follow me on Twitter, & Instagram.