Community

89-year-old Artist Inspires her Hospice Team

By Lin Sue Flood

Avinell MacDonald isn’t kidding when she says, “it’s never too late to try something new.” She was 60 years old when her husband asked if there was anything in life she wanted to do but hadn’t tried. MacDonald chose two things: play the piano and take up painting. Before she knew it, he’d bought her a piano and paint supplies.

A peek at Avinell’s studio, filled with works she’s painted over the last 29 years

She learned to play a few tunes before giving the piano to her granddaughter but has never put down the paintbrush in nearly three decades. “I didn’t think I had any talent,” the Hospice of the Valley patient confesses, “but my husband had faith in me, so I kept going. I bought some books and taught myself to mix colors and suddenly, I just took off.”

Her determination ignited something in hospice chaplain Ken Collins, who is quite possibly her biggest groupie. At 63, he decided to give painting a try.

“Avinell is one incredible artist and one incredible person!” Collins says. “The beauty of her paintings is only matched by the beauty of her inspiring life. She’s my biggest encourager and has unleashed in me a long-held passion.” The two enjoy sharing their latest projects and discussing color and technique. “I never dreamed what I was doing would get him so excited,” MacDonald laughs. “He’s got talent and if he pursues it, he’s gonna be a lot better than I am someday!”

The 89-year-old loves sharing the framed collection that fills her bedroom studio. Her hospice care team, which includes Collins, nurse Cheryl Adams, and social worker Susan Dabreo, enjoy watching the creative process unfold, as MacDonald transforms a blank canvas into a beautiful landscape, floral arrangement, or family portrait. Right now, she’s painting a mountain scene from one of her favorite photographs. “I used the same colors of the photo, but it doesn’t suit me, so I’m going to change them,” she quips. “Don’t know what I’ll end up with, but when I finish, I hope I like it.”

“We always say that hospice care includes making the most of life, enhancing it with what you love,” Collins says. “With Avinell, that means nurturing her artistic side too.” Her fan club can’t wait to see what she paints next.

“They all encourage me, especially when I mess up. They’re just so kind and generous and don’t make me feel old,” she jokes. “I’ll be 90 in a few months and look at me. I’m still at it!”

To learn about Hospice of the Valley programs and services, call 602-530-6900, or visit hov.org.

Avinell MacDonald and her protégé, chaplain Ken Collins.

Avinell says her hospice care team are her biggest fans.

Community

Hit the Trail During Eight4Two Challenge

Photo Courtesy of Arizona State Parks and Trails

The Eight4Two Challenge from Arizona State Parks and Trails is back for its third year, giving everyone an opportunity to win prizes for exploring more of Arizona’s amazing and diverse state trails and parks!

Hike, walk, or bike eight different trails in at least four different state parks by Mon., Jan. 16, 2023, to win two free dayuse passes (good for up to four people) and a custom, limited-edition sticker. A full list of state parks can be found at azstateparks.com. On Jan. 1, 2023, Arizona State Parks will offer First Day Hikes as part of a national program to start the year off with exercise and fresh air, and all Arizona residents will get free entrance to a state park on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Jan. 16).

Everyone participating in the Eight4Two Challenge can include these great events on their calendars or check out ongoing guided hikes at the parks at azstateparks.com/events.

Register online, then log entries and submit photos of your adventures! Photos may be used on social media and in Arizona State Parks advertising, and everyone who completes the goal will win the prizes. Tag #AZStateParks in photos on social media, using #842AZ.

To find more information, register, and log your entries, visit azstateparks. com/842-challenge.

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