Participating in an annual boat parade is a summertime favorite for Oconomowoc teammates. This year, art therapist Lacie Timm from Depression Recovery adult residential care had the chance to bring her creativity to the decorating duties.

“I was asked by my leader, Deana Grall, manager of experiential therapy, to paint The Rainbow Fish book by Marcus Pfister,” explains Lacie.

The request sparked mixed emotions.

“I felt honored and proud,” she shares. “Deana’s belief in me, her support and trust brought me a great sense of fulfilment. I also felt a little hesitant. As a child, I loved illustrations. The watercolors and sparkle felt magical and otherworldly. I now see the book through a different lens and have mapped out different ways I could alter the story, although I value and respect the lessons of friendship and sharing.”

Lacie says the book became an exciting topic of conversation with colleagues and residents.

“We discussed the intended messages of the book along with the concepts of self-acceptance, identity, self-worth and compassion, and self-sacrifice,” she says.

Over the course of two weeks, in between leading therapy groups, Lacie painted large, vibrant canvases inspired by the book. Residents and coworkers followed her progress with excitement, which motivated her to keep creating.

“Their interest and encouragement truly kept my momentum flowing,” she says.

While stormy weather cancelled the parade, the story didn’t end there. Lacie’s paintings will be auctioned at the Foundation’s Celebrate the Light Gala in November.

“I feel very honored,” she shares. “I anticipated the paintings would be placed in storage or repurposed. Everyone’s reactions have been so incredibly rewarding. That’s the real prize.”

Find out more about the gala by clicking here.