Ms. Gwen
I am writing to share some reflections about this year and a message of hope.
Soon we will collectively close the many pages, twists and turns of 2020. Indeed—this has been a year. A year where we see the fault lines of this great city and nation exposed. A year we can point to the impact of income inequality and to the lack of access and equity for Chicagoans, including our EarthHeart families, living in under-resourced communities. And amidst a global pandemic we watched George Floyd call for his mother as he took his last breath.
I heard his call.
I cannot let this year go by without sharing my concern for the future. Too many of our EarthHeart mothers have shared stories not unlike what we have seen this year. We must do better.
Though COVID-19 prevented our Mom’s First program to gather physically, we continue to meet virtually. It is our time to check-in, to laugh, cry, inspire, to take the weight off our shoulders and share stories.
I would be honored if you would read my very special story about one of our cherished mothers.
Ms. Gwen Johnson, 83, of the Englewood community on the South Side of Chicago is an angel on earth. She is one of EarthHeart’s most devoted senior participants. Ms. Gwen is respected throughout the community and is actively involved in a number of organizations. When I experienced a significant health challenge, Ms. Gwen was a tremendous support. She walked with me through the journey, she prayed with me, she helped me see that everything would be okay. She cared for my soul and for my spirit during my most difficult moments—and I am forever grateful to her for being there for me.
Early on in the pandemic, Ms. Gwen contracted COVID. She spent six weeks on a ventilator and months in the hospital. I prayed every day for her recovery and for her strength. She made it—against the odds—she won—WE WON her fight against the virus.
To celebrate, I wanted to do something special to honor Ms. Gwen. She is the definition of love and light, strength and fortitude. She is an angel on earth. As such, I commissioned a dear friend and extremely talented Chicago artist, Rhonda K. Brown, to create a portrait of Ms. Gwen for my home office.
This 48x48 painting entitled, Earth Angel, Ms. Gwen sits over my shoulder every day as a constant reminder of the power of love, perseverance and generosity of heart and soul. Its brightly colored palette and patterns are so joyful. This experience taught me, that no matter who we are or where we come from; no matter our past, present or current circumstance—if we remain open—together we can make a difference and a lasting and far-reaching impact.
Upon hearing my story, Rhonda decided to create a limited-edition EarthHeart Foundation signed and numbered archival-quality print, so that you too can experience the rare and awesome beauty of this “Earth Angel,” Ms. Gwen Johnson.
With a contribution to EarthHeart Foundation of $250 or more, you will receive this print to hang on your wall. Every contribution helps, so if you want to make a donation and not receive a print, we appreciate your generosity.
Click here to make your contribution today.
Your contribution will help EarthHeart to continue to connect women living in some of Chicago’s most at-risk communities to programs and events that enhance their mental, physical, emotional and spiritual lives.
Every Mother Can Change Her World.
Thank you for your continued support.
Deirdre Koldyke
Founder and President
EarthHeart Foundation
Earth Angel, Ms. Gwen by artist Rhonda K. Brown. Every donation of $250 and more will receive a print of this beautiful painting of EarthHeart member Ms. Gwen Johnson, 83, Englewood resident and COVID-19 survivor.
My dear friend and extremely talented Chicago artist, Rhonda K. Brown, created this portrait of Ms. Gwen. You can view her website here.