Paul Park
A Christmas Fish Tank
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
“My name is Paul Park. Seven and a half years ago I had a stroke, and I lost the ability to use my right hand and 50% of my right foot. I could only speak three words: ‘yes,’ ‘no’ and ‘computer.’ I also lost my job with the MOD where I worked for 30 years.
“Before my brain injury, I didn’t have much time for hobbies. I took up art and trained my left arm to hold a pencil or paintbrush as I used to be righthanded. Over time and with determination my techniques improved.”
How does it feel for your design to be chosen as a winner?
“It was great! I’m going to send some to my friends and family.”
What inspired you to create the Christmas Fish Tank?
“I made it up as I did it! The picture is pastel oils, so the fish have a warm feeling. I find painting with bright and vibrant pastel colours very satisfying.”
What does Headway Gloucestershire mean to you?
“There is something about Headway that makes me want to be there.
“Headway gave me a platform to develop my art skills, I also like participating in the woodwork and pottery workshops. I love it!”
Headway Gloucestershire says…
“Everyone at Headway Gloucestershire is delighted that Paul has been chosen as a winner for the
Headway Christmas card competition!
“His fish tank picture has been framed and is proudly hung in our building. We are continually inspired
by Paul, and all of the individuals who are on their recovery journey."
You can buy A Christmas Fish Tank through our online shop.
Millie Akhtar
Santa Stuck in a Chimney
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
“Before my brain injury, I was a chemical analyst working with medical devices. I am passionate about encouraging young people to get into science, so I became a science technician in a local high school. I set up a science club with the aim of making people realise how fun science can be. In 2016 I suffered from Autoimmune Encephalitis which was a dramatic and life-changing experience.”
What do you enjoy about being creative?
“I have always had an interest in art, so I was happy to join the Headway Luton art group. I really like meeting others who are in similar situations to me and feel included through the art activities.
“Our art tutors and staff encourage us to try new materials and techniques to express ourselves creatively.”
What inspired you to create Santa stuck in a Chimney?
“The card was based on the funny song ‘When Santa Got Stuck Up a Chimney.’”
What does Headway Luton mean to you?
"Although having a brain injury is life changing, attending the day centre enables me to express myself and concentrate on things I can do, helping me improve my physical and mental health.
“Attending Headway Luton helps me develop and maintain a positive outlook for my future. Staff also support my family in adapting to their new lives after my brain injury.”
Headway Luton says…
“Millie’s card reflects not only how much of a positive person and friend she is to her peers, but how humour is used by many of our clients to cope and adapt to their life-changing injuries.
“We hope you enjoy our fun and festive cards and learn more about living life as an ABI survivor.”
You can buy Santa Stuck in a Chimney through our online shop.
Explore our Christmas shop
The big day is fast approaching and we have more card designs for you, as well as our festive Christmas decorations to hang on your tree.
Each pack of ten Christmas cards costs just £3.50 and, as this year's cards are kindly sponsored by the Bolt Burdon Kemp, all proceeds will help us to deliver our vital services for families affected by brain injury across the country.
Our new Christmas decorations cost £1.50 each, and have been launched to support our By the Bedside campaign, with each sale helping us to help families in the immediate aftermath of brain injury.
Browse our Christmas shop here.
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