Artistic discovery through recovery
"No one comes to see me on a Wednesday afternoon, they know better," said Donna Mitchell with a giggle when asked about her participation in the pottery program at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton.
Donna calls herself an artist, and by looking at the many pieces that lay on the table, she certainly is. Not having any prior pottery experience, Donna got involved through the Recreation Therapy Program as part of her stay in the Complex Care unit.
Artistic skills are not required to participate, just an open mind and willingness to explore. The pottery class is organized to provide instruction, and guidance, giving participants the opportunity to learn and develop their own style of creative expression.
Pottery is an example of many creative programs offered to patients at St. Joe's, providing the opportunity to learn a new skill, focus on strengths, express themselves, and engage productively. Before attending a class, patients receive an individualized assessment and treatment plan based on their care needs and goals. Participation in pottery can be one part of a patient's care plan for improved health and wellbeing.
"Over time, it's so humbling to see the growth in our patients throughout each program; their confidence increases, self-expression and overall socialization," explained Sherri Llewellyn, Recreation Therapist, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. "For some, it can also help improve their cognitive functioning, physical tolerance and development of a desire to continue with creative programs in the community on discharge."
Proudly sharing the varied pieces she's completed, Donna describes the progress she's made over the past 8 months of her time at St. Joe's.
"Being part of the pottery program is so special to me, I don't know how I would have come so far while in the hospital without it," explained Donna. "Looking forward to class each Wednesday gets me out of my room, talking to people and I've got something to show for, it's great."
Ultimately, Therapeutic Recreation is about optimizing a patient's health, their well-being and focusing on the five domains of health; physical, cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual.
To learn more or to make a purchase from the pottery sale, contact Sherri Llewellyn, Recreation Therapist, at sllewell@stjoes.ca.