Dean Lansberry – Allison Park, PA

2019 MSAA Four Seasons Art Showcase Entrants

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Dean Lansberry – Allison Park, PA

When I was first diagnosed with MS, I was battling a rare blood disease. It turned out that my physician noticed peculiar physical and mental difficulties and referred me to a neurologist, who after a slew of tests, diagnosed me with this disease. I became very involved with frequent visits and tests with my primary physician, neurologist, and hematologist. Work was impossible due to fatigue, pain, difficulties with memory and motor skills. My parents had instilled in me a strong work ethic and now I was at a loss. I loved my job as a counselor for families and children at a residential school for at risk children in Vermont. Depression overtook me.

I needed to find an outlet, which turned out to be art. While in college, I took some art classes in different mediums. The professor wanted me to change my major; however, I decided to continue in human services.

I began painting, and at first was awful. But, I began to remember the skills involved with painting and as time went on I improved. It was good therapy for me and I gained enough confidence to paint pictures for family and friends. So glad that I did and continue to do art work until this day after more than 12 years since my diagnosis. My attitude is good. I look at others who have worse situations and think to myself: “There by the grace of God go I.”

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