The Gathering
by Susan Jones

Christmas 1993: Susan Jones, artist, awoke with a slight stiffness in her little finger. Within a week, both of her hands were so swollen and painful that she was unable to even lift a paintbrush. Certain that this was some bizarre allergic reaction, she went to her doctor where she learned that she had Rheumatoid Arthritis; a crippling disease that not only affects the joints, but the entire body, including the internal organs as well as the immune system. Her gift of painting had been taken from her and this was the greatest loss.

At the Center for Arthritis, Susan saw the once strong, straight bodies of other victims bent by the disease. Surprisingly, she also saw humor, beauty and courage in the patients. They were bent, but not broken. After eight months of treatment, Susan began to regain the use of her hands. It was during this period of pain and fear that she envisioned "The Gathering".

When you see the print, "The Gathering", you feel a flood of emotions as you join "The Gathering" to rejoice in the beauty of the day. Susan's arthritis is now under control and not a day goes by that she doesn't paint, nor does she take this gift for granted. Susan hopes that others can benefit from this image of hope.