I finally met Cleveland Smith and his family.

When he saw the painting (click on the image) he was all smiles.

This was one of those times where I was really happy to be able to do what I do.

Cleveland is a brave man. His fight with Lou Gehrig’s disease continues and it will take time. But more important than a painting to assist in his recovery is the fact that he is surrounded by those who love him. I wish him all the success there is.

Shown in photo, from left to right: Cheryl Smith (his wife), Cleveland Smith, Angela Smith (his daughter), Christina Smith (the daughter who found Tucky), and Joseph Edwards (his grandson).

Here is a message from Christina:

“As I said before, when I first contacted you while dad was in the hospital, he was truly frail.  I know that you couldn’t really tell from your first encounter with my dad, but he is WAY stronger than he was.  He was thinner than he is now.  He has put on weight and he can hold his head up for long stretches at a time and sit in a chair.  He has been using the exercise bike.  His heart and lungs are in excellent condition.  The expert doctor who diagnosed him with ALS in September 2009 told him he had three months to live.  Well that was almost a year ago!  Your portrait is one more positive step forward towards his recovery.  Our whole family is so grateful.”