December 15, 2006

Artwork showcases courage in the face of epilepsy

The hallways of the MGH Neurology Clinic in the WACC were brightened during October and November with the colorful artwork of pediatric and adult epilepsy patients as the practice hosted the nationally rotating art exhibit "Expressions of Courage: Through the Years." Co-sponsored by the Society for Arts in Healthcare and Ortho-McNeil Neurologics, Inc., the exhibition showcases winning pieces from previous Expressions of Courage art contests. Its aim is to enhance public awareness of epilepsy and promote the arts as an integral component of health care and healing.

"Both the patients and staff have really enjoyed this display," says Karen Capozzo, practice manager for MGH Neurology. "The artwork was very impressive and everyone stopped to admire the pictures as they walked down the hall. I only wish that we could have kept them here permanently."

The exhibit has a particularly special connection to the MGH, as it was developed with the support of Elizabeth Thiele, MD, director of the MGH Pediatric Epilepsy Program, who had established a similar art project at the hospital to showcase the work of her patients.