Lifestyle

Veteran, cancer survivor discovers hidden artistic talent


AKRON, Ohio – Sometimes it can take decades to realize you have a special talent hidden deep within you.

This is the case for Ned Germany, a 73-year-old veteran of Akron who discovered his creative side after being diagnosed with cancer.

Each brush stroke paints a burgeoning picture of Germany, who five years ago he didn’t know he was an artist.

“The problem is I’ve never been interested in art. It’s not my hobby,” Duc told News 5 in an interview at Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center.

Long before his painting days, Germany served in the army. He was drafted into the army during the Vietnam War. He was not deployed to Vietnam. He served in Germany and still takes pride in his service.

“I got a letter from Uncle Sam that said ‘I need you!'” he said with a chuckle.

Fast-forward to 2017 when it looks like Germany will need a miracle to stay alive.

He was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer and doctors gave him about six months to live. He outlived that estimate, and the following year he was told he was leaving in 30 days.

Duc, a married father of three, doesn’t have that.

“I said, ‘No, I don’t. I don’t die. I will live. “

During that time, Germany was introduced to art therapy at the Cleveland Clinic Akron General.

When he started drawing and painting, he was amazed at how natural art came to him, but now, it’s hard to imagine life without a creative outlet.

“I am amazed and this is not the end of it,” he said.

He likes to draw animals, nature scenes and flowers on pictures. He also loves pencil drawing and collage.

The impressive works of art have attracted the attention of many people. He has produced more than 100 pieces. Some of them were hanged in the hospital and others inside the Summit County Courthouse.

Duc credits his care team, family and faith in his longevity, but says art therapy has also helped him fight cancer, providing motivation and alleviating his anxiety. that.

“It helps calm my mind and I can focus on what I’m doing rather than the pain of what I’m going through,” he says.

Duc even worked on projects while undergoing chemotherapy.

“If I sit for three out of four hours, I might as well be busy,” he said.

Amber Gano, a board certified art therapist, recommended this therapy to veterans.

“A patient doesn’t have to be a great sketch artist, sculptor or painter. They just need to have an open mind and be willing to participate,” says Mr. Gano. “It’s about the many therapeutic benefits that the creative process can provide.”

Duc said he plans to stay busy. His passion for painting – discovered later in life – is helping him enjoy each day to the fullest as an artist.

“It’s a way of expressing yourself.”





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