ANEURYSM

In early 2009, my father Guy Mongrain was driving home to Toronto from a business trip in Montreal when he suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm.   By the grace of God, he managed to drive 6 hours with no memory and made it to town before receiving any medical attention.  How he made it to this point, is nothing short of a miracle.  Almost 10 hours after it ruptured he was airlifted to Buffalo, where he received his first of 2 life saving procedures.  After spending weeks in ICU he was released with full mobility.  During the following months his positive attitude and love inspired me as well as the strength of my mother and family.  It is really in times like these that we really see what is important in our lives and the strength and love we have in each other and God, as he is in us all.

While in the hospital in Buffalo speaking with the surgeons, I was able to see an image of his aneurysm and felt the strongest pull in my life to paint it.  I have never felt stronger about having to do something before.  I knew it had to be painted not only for my healing but as a memorial for the power of faith and miracles.  While he was at home healing I painted the first of 2 aneurysm paintings. I have to say, these works are selfish in a way as they helped me to heal.  Their intent is to remember all of those who have passed on before us and to remember the beauty of life and living each moment fully in love.

Through this, our whole family and all those whom his life touched saw his strength and humor help him heal.  I was touched, heartbroken, inspired, strengthened and moved spiritually.  His life, as well as all of ours, is nothing short of a miracle.  The healing power of laughter and love can make the biggest difference in all life situations.  I learned that we are not alone, that we should live every day as they come because they are blessings and miracles are real.  The support of hundreds of people all over the world was the most beautiful thing to see and every prayer, call and thought of love made such a difference in all of our lives.

Less than one year later, he had to go in for a craniotomy as a permanent fix to his condition.  The miracles didn’t stop after the first surgery. This time around he was blessed to be in the care of one of the world’s most amazing and beautiful surgeons.  His surgery and recovery was a huge success as well as the support and care that he received leading up to the surgery and to this very day.  It was around this time that I painted the second Aneurysm painting, this one being a lot softer and happier than the first.

If I could have two things come from these paintings, the first thing would be to help others who are dealing with loss or life changing experiences come to know and feel the love and peace that God has blessed us all with.  The second thing would be to give comfort and hope that miracles do happen.  I have learned that with faith and love all can be conquered.  These paintings are made with love for the purpose of remembering everyone who has ever suffered or has had to deal with loss or the threat of it.  May God and love continue to bless your life. May you believe that miracles are real and even in the most seemingly devastating circumstances. I hope you remember that life and love are right around the corner.

All my love.

Special and heartfelt thanks to Dr. S.P. Lownie and the many professionals who have cared for my father.   I am extremely grateful and blessed to have him in my life.

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NEW LIMITED EDITION PRINT ON CANVAS

I am pleased to announce this as it is the very first and who knows, maybe only print of a painting available on canvas. Due to the iridescent nature of my paintings I have been reluctant to reproduce them until now. This painting in specific has a beautiful story that you have just read, which will be included in digital form with all print sales. It is a sexy piece that many adore and I am happy to share it.   Printed on an oh so sexy canvas, black sides, wire on back…. your print comes ready to hang and share with the world.

OWN A 14×18 ANEURYSM CANVAS PRINT for $65.00 + shipping.  Toronto pick up available.

email hello@torimongrain.com to place your sexy print order!!