Judy finds solace through her beautiful portraits
Posthumous portrait offer in support of St Michael’s
Soon after the birth of her first grandchild, Judy Young was moved to draw sketches of her. Her talent led to her being commissioned to paint other portraits for those close to her, and around the world.
In 2017, the precious granddaughter who had become the inspiration for her portraits, sadly died of brain cancer at St Michael’s. India was just 19 years old.
“The care she – and we, her family – received at the Hospice was unbelievable,” said Judy. “She was given the very best end-of-life possible.”
India’s beloved dog, Merlin, was a permanent fixture in her room. A kind Homemaker decorated this room with posters of India’s heroes, Dr Who and Harry Potter, whilst a member of the nursing staff gave her a Harry Potter wand. A friend was even allowed to bring a horse to visit her.
When painting posthumous portraits of India, Judy said it dawned on her that friends and relatives of patients at St Michael’s might cherish a portrait of their loved ones.
“It’s so much more personal and evocative than a photograph. I love doing it, because I know how much pleasure it can give when you are grieving.”
Judy says she would be happy to accept commissions to paint posthumous portraits of loved ones who have been cared for by St Michael’s, in return for a donation to the Hospice.