I am 59 years old and have been drawing and painting for about a year. After becoming seriously ill five years ago, I am very disabled and as a result have difficulty walking and talking, and struggle to breathe without oxygen. I went from being fiercely independent to being totally dependent on others for every aspect of living. I became very depressed and sometimes wished I hadn't survived at all.

One day my son, Darren, arrived with a huge package containing an easel, oils, watercolours, pastels, paper and pencils. I thought he had gone crazy-I had never had any interest in art, as far as I knew I couldn't even draw a straight line! After some time, I bought a book by Frank Clarke and began painting and drawing and I haven't stopped since. From that day I have come alive and I can honestly say I amhappy again. I have a reason to get out of bed in the morning.

I have learned a lot from Art publications, these have been invaluable with their hints and techniques. The sources for my paintings are usually photographs. I buy all types of magazines, travel, history, photography etc, and I search through them for something that appeals to me and I feel would make a good painting. Circumstancesallowing, I paint everyday, it is one of the most important things in my life. Painting has transformed my life.