A former South Florida art teacher is using his love of painting to help himself and other patients recover from stroke. Craig Blackwood teaches a monthly art class at Memorial Healthcare System’s Rehab Institute, where he is also receiving physical and speech therapy.
Blackwood taught art and woodwork at Lake Stevens Middle School in Miami Gardens for 28 years. He suffered a stroke late last year and at first could say only a few words, according to his speech therapist, Tara Blickenstaff. He worried he would never teach again.
His therapists suggested he teach a class. Patients copy one of Blackwood’s paintings, and he explains each step aloud, which helps his speech. Brushes and sponges help patients build hand grip and coordination.
Blickenstaff said the class gives patients a break from the grind of recovery and shows them to keep working toward the things they enjoy. Some of Blackwood’s former students have stopped by to visit him.
Blackwood said he hopes to return to his classroom at Lake Stevens one day. “I can’t wait to be back,” he said.
