Local Artist Donates Painting to Hospital

Local artist Michael E. Cartwright recently donated another of his works to Hôpital Glengarry Memorial Hospital. This painting, entitled "A Jewel on Mill Pond" features a vibrant image of the hospital as seen from across the water.

Mr. Cartwright has been an avid supporter of HGMH, particularly since his stroke in 2012, which resulted in his admission to the HGMH Post-Acute Stroke Rehabilitation Program. "My transition from patient to friend of this hospital came as a delightful surprise to me," said Cartwright. "I mean, what a silver lining could there be in having a stroke? I haven't just survived, I have flourished from the experience. What happened to me between September 27, 2012 and my completion of the Post Stroke Rehabilitation Program? I think it had a lot to do with the timeless support of this family that created a new neuron pathway for me to follow. It is for this change and others that I give to all of you 'A Jewel on Mill Pond'."

Stroke is the leading cause of disability in Canada. The Heart & Stroke Foundation reports that there are over 50,000 strokes in Canada annually - that's one stroke every ten minutes. The Post-Acute Stroke Rehabilitation Program at HGMH provides rehabilitation to patients who have suffered a recent stroke and are expected to recover and transition to a community living arrangement. A typical patient on the unit will actively participate in 2-3 hours of therapy per day, five days a week.

"Visiting a hospital is often a stressful situation for patients," said CEO Linda Morrow. "Michael's art has given us the opportunity to brighten the walls of our Emergency Department waiting room, which is visited by nearly 25,000 patients every year."

"My hope is that it will bridge gaps and make friendships easier for this hospital," said Cartwright.