Name
Sarah Hogan

Brain Tumor Type
Other

Date of Diagnosis
1992

Participant Group
Brain Tumor Survivor / 21 and over

Category
Drawing/Painting/Printmaking/Chalk Art

Artist Statement (include type of art, techniques & materials used, what it means to you)
This is an acrylic painting entitled 'Spirit of Freedom'. I've painted this on a skateboard deck. I've always loved painting and doing crafts for as long as I can remember. I love that art evokes emotion in all of us. Art is therapeutic, offers a sense of accomplishment and connects us. Sharing artwork with others can foster meaningful connections and spark conversations about shared experiences and perspectives.

Artist Bio: Tell Us Your Story
My name is Sarah Hogan and I'm 52 years old. I'm a survivor living with a brain tumour for over 25yrs. I'm a self taught artist and love creating. Art is a positive outlet for me, especially since I'm on disability. It's a wonderful hobby to enjoy. In the summer I keep busy with sprint kayaking. I truly believe movement is medicine.

I was diagnosed with an Acoustic Neuroma over 25years ago. It's hard to believe it's been that long! I consider myself lucky because I'm still on watch and wait approach. I get an MRI every 6months-12months depending if the tumour has grown or not. I had already lost my hearing on the AN side so I opted to not have surgery or radiation. I was considered too young for radiation at my diagnosis so I decided to wait.

I have tinnitus in both ears, chronic headaches/migranes and dizzy spells. Life is difficult with being HOH (Hard of Hearing) and presents challenges in itself. I've gotten used it and cope fairly well. Most people would never guess I'm HOH but then again I get used to answers like 'Sure and Okay and nodding even if I don't hear!

I'm actually getting curious about my options for hearing aids. I could benefit from cros or bicros hearing aids or a cochlea implant. I'm anxious about it, but in a good way. CROS hearing aids are specialized hearing aids that are developed specifically for people with unilateral hearing loss.