How illness uncovered Hartlepool woman's drawing talents

How amazing it is to hear of the 'hidden' talents of a Hartlepool woman who has been left bed-bound by multiple illnesses.
Bed bound artist Maxine GrayBed bound artist Maxine Gray
Bed bound artist Maxine Gray

Maxine Gray, 65, is unable to leave her bed unaided after becoming ill.

But despite her daily struggles she has discovered a talent for drawing and painting animals.

Bed bound artist Maxine GrayBed bound artist Maxine Gray
Bed bound artist Maxine Gray
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And the story is made even more remarkable as the mum-of-two is going to have her work exhibited at the town’s Central Library.

Maxine suffers from a number of illnesses, including fibromyalgia, a condition which causes pain all over the body, as well as chronic fatigue, diabetes, sleep apnoea and spinal problems.

“I am bed -bound so my daughter Rachael was trying to engage me in different things,” she said.

“She brought me pencils, an easel and paints and said: ‘Have a go, mum’, so in the end I had a go and it’s been life changing.”

Bed bound artist Maxine GrayBed bound artist Maxine Gray
Bed bound artist Maxine Gray

And the idea proved to be a huge success.

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“I showed a lady at the library a few of my pictures,” added Maxine, “ and she said they were really good, and they would like to give me an exhibition.

“I was really pleased.” Well done Maxine, you’re an inspiration.