Julie Graber, 2016: a chronic neurological disorder after 8-day river cruise Prague to Budapest, Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS), for which “there is no cure”; rocking, bobbing, swaying like on a paddle board in the middle of Lake Michigan on a windy day, 24×7; co-morbid complex stress response (PTSD); highest reported incidence in females between the ages of 30-60. Medical Diagnosis code “dizziness and giddiness”, R42. Medical Diagnosis by neurologist 2017: Astasia-Abasia. Prescription and referral to psychiatrist. “Did you fall on your head as a child?” I don’t know … let me think…
WITNESS TO THE PAINTING:
do not hide. do not deny. do not look away.
“I want you to feel your feet on the floor and take a few deep breaths,” he said. “I can’t. I have no feet.”
Do you understand? … I have no feet … I cannot feel my feet.
Nervous system exposed; core protected beneath. Bangles on Her Biceps. Flanked by symbols of the journey there to here and the healing stone She carries for Her future.
She wears a mask of Power and Courage. I witness her Bravery and Beauty.
Yes, Awareness is the Beginning.
