Strokes for Strokes painting class helps survivors find healing through creativity and connection
The slow-paced painting class encouraged participants to work at their own comfort level while expressing themselves creatively in a judgement-free environment.
By Michelle Ryan-Day
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What began as a simple painting class became something much more for stroke survivors and their caregivers who gathered recently for Strokes for Strokes, a community event hosted by Hope Survives and supported by the USA Health Comprehensive Stroke Center.
The event was designed to show that life after stroke can continue to include creativity, meaningful activities and social connection with the right support and adaptations. By the end of the class, organizers said those goals had become reality.
One of the day's most touching moments came when occupational therapy students worked alongside a stroke survivor who regularly attends the group's support meetings, helping her overcome physical limitations so she could complete her painting.
"One of our survivors who we know a little more since she comes to support group was getting help from the OT students with her deficits and helping her to paint, and I know it meant the world to her," said Ashleigh Mackey, MSHQS, BSN, R.N., stroke certification coordinator at USA Health and a Hope Survives ambassador. "We got to meet others in the community we didn't know and hopefully offer them a safe space to rest."
The event welcomed both longtime members of the stroke survivor community and participants attending for the first time, creating opportunities for friendships and support to grow beyond the hospital setting.
"We got to connect with both survivors and caregivers and give their minds a time to rest and feel normal working with a community of others like themselves," Mackey said.
Before the event, organizers hoped participants would leave knowing that many activities can still be enjoyed after stroke with appropriate modifications and encouragement. Mackey said that objective was clearly met.
For Emily Dahlmann, DNP, director of the USA Health Stroke Program, programs like Strokes for Strokes fill an important gap in recovery by supporting survivors and caregivers long after formal rehabilitation ends.
"Many people don't realize that care for the stroke survivor and caregiver continues after discharge, whether that be one day or 20 years," Dahlmann said. "Classes like these allow a safe and calming space to join others with similar circumstances."
The slow-paced painting class encouraged participants to work at their own comfort level while expressing themselves creatively in an environment free of judgment.
"Every painting was beautiful, creative and meaningful," Dahlmann said. "Each person traveled a different path to get here, and they were able to share their experiences with others. The goal was for them to feel heard and be seen while making new friends and creating connections."
The event reflected growing evidence that creative activities can benefit stroke recovery by improving physical movement, encouraging emotional expression, reducing depression and strengthening social connections. Those principles were at the heart of the program, which was intentionally designed to help survivors rediscover confidence while building a sense of normalcy and community.
The enthusiastic response has already inspired organizers to begin planning future opportunities for stroke survivors and caregivers.
"We plan on continuing our series of stroke survivor and caregiver activities," Dahlmann said. "Maybe another art class, crafts, music, or chair yoga. The possibilities are endless, and we can't wait to bring them to our community."
