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Grandmother
Maeve Chaple says her life turned technicolour when she discovered
hidden artistic talents.
Four
heart attacks, asthma and rheumatoid arthritis have failed to dampen
Maeve’s zest for life.
I
would say to anyone thinking about going back into learning:
just do it.
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| Outstanding
Adult Learner award nominee Maeve Chaple. |
Six
years ago, 61-year-old Maeve, from Moreton-in-Marsh, joined the
Stow Disability Association, a thriving community organisation based
at Adlestrop Village Hall, and it was there she learned to paint.
She
says: "Suddenly the world became technicolour."
Maeve
has progressed at an astonishing rate. Her tutor Ann Edwards says:
"Her drawing skills are excellent despite the discomfort in her
hands from arthritis.
"She
has embraced her new found skills with such joy and enthusiasm,
it is truly inspiring."
Maeve
says: "I was so active before I was ill, I was determined not to
just sit and vegetate. If it hadn’t been for the SDA, it would have
been difficult for me, and for many others, to get a life.
"I
would say to anyone thinking about going back into learning: just
do it."
She
is now the Stow Disability Association’s treasurer and transport
manager, organising the organisation’s minibus which serves the
Cotswold villages.
She
says: "The art Ann has taught us has been amazing. I used to draw
when I was at school but I was no good at painting.
"Now
my children argue over which of my pictures to have. My granddaughter
Charlotte is 10, and she thinks I am so clever – it’s a good feeling."
Members
of the SDA sell their paintings and quilted cards to raise funds
for the association and to keep their mini-bus going. "It’s a lifeline
for disabled people," says Maeve.
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