Once upon a time, in the picturesque town of White Rock, British Columbia, a renowned artist named Michel Israel felt a deep connection to the community and its iconic symbol, the White Rock Pier. This remarkable artist, known for his passion for giving back, embarked on a special project that would not only celebrate the pier’s beauty but also benefit a cause close to his heart—the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation.
The White Rock Pier, often regarded as the longest pier in its vicinity, held a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Stretching an impressive 470 meters, it was a beloved destination that captured the essence of coastal charm. From sunrise strolls to breathtaking sunsets, the pier had witnessed countless moments of joy, laughter, and reflection.
However, on that fateful day of December 20, 2018, a powerful windstorm wreaked havoc on the beloved pier. The community stood in shock as they witnessed the devastating damage inflicted upon this cherished landmark. It was a moment of great sadness and loss.
In the midst of this collective sorrow, Michel Israel found inspiration. He envisioned a way to honor the White Rock Pier’s resilience and to contribute to the healing process of the community. With his artistic talent and unwavering dedication, he set out to create a masterpiece that would capture the essence of the pier’s magnificence.
With every brushstroke and color choice, Michel poured his heart and soul into the painting. He wanted to capture the nostalgia, the beauty, and the indomitable spirit of the White Rock Pier. Through his artistry, he hoped to bring solace and remind the community of the pier’s enduring legacy.
But Michel’s vision went beyond the mere creation of a painting. He wanted his art to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. That’s why he decided to dedicate the proceeds from the sale of the painting to the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation—a vital organization that provides essential healthcare services to the community.
As news of Michel’s endeavor spread, the community rallied behind his cause. Residents, business owners, and art enthusiasts all eagerly awaited the unveiling of the painting. It became a symbol of hope, resilience, and unity in the face of adversity.
Finally, the day arrived. Amid a buzz of anticipation, Michel Israel’s masterpiece was revealed at the Peace Arch Hosptial Foundation Gala. The painting radiated with vibrant colors, capturing the pier’s majestic presence against a backdrop of a breathtaking sunset. Every brushstroke seemed to emanate the love and dedication poured into its creation.
Michel’s painting became a memorable event, filled with warmth and generosity. Bidders recognized the significance of this artwork, not only as a beautiful depiction of the White Rock Pier but also as a tangible way to support the hospital foundation’s noble cause.
The painting found a new home, and its sale contributed greatly to the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation.
Michel Israel’s painting of the White Rock Pier became an enduring symbol of community spirit and resilience. It reminded everyone that even in the face of adversity, beauty and hope could emerge, guiding us toward a brighter future.
And so, the legacy of the White Rock Pier lived on, not just in the physical structure that stretched into the ocean but also in the hearts and minds of those who cherished its significance. Michel Israel’s painting became a testament to the power of art, compassion, and the unyielding spirit of a community united in the pursuit of healing and support.
Getting ready for performance on FOX to promote an appearance for the Payton Wright Foundation gala.
IT ALL STARTED WHEN…
In early 2006, three-year-old Payton Wright began complaining of a pain in her knee. Thinking that it was nothing more than growing pains, her parents, Holly and Patrick, took her to the doctor, who told them the pain would probably go away on its own. When it persisted, the Wrights were told that it was probably juvenile arthritis or perhaps diskitis.
After a few weeks with no improvement, Dr. Bob Morelli, the ER doctor at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL ordered an MRI. On May 17, 2006, just weeks after her 4th birthday, Payton was diagnosed with cancer when the MRI revealed a tumor on her spine and pelvis. Always concerned for others, Payton looked at her worried father as she was wheeled into her first surgery and said, “Don’t worry, Dad. It’s gonna be a good day.” Payton fought her entire battle with the attitude that every day was going to be a good one.
The doctors determined that Payton had Medulloepithelioma, a very rare form of brain cancer, and one for which there was no treatment protocol and very little hope for recovery. First at All Children’s and later at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC, doctors pieced together Payton’s treatment, which included intense rounds of chemotherapy and radiation.
In August of 2006, Payton was paralyzed from the waist down due to the tumor’s compression of her spine. She received as much radiation as a human body can tolerate, but the tumor continued to grow. Payton continued to fight, and she was able to graduate with her preschool class in May of 2007. However, the cancer continued to spread, and on May 29, 2007, Payton passed away at the age of 5.
Patrick and Holly Wright saw how courageously their daughter fought, and they promised her that they would never stop fighting. The Payton Wright Foundation was created both in Payton’s memory and with her fighting spirit so that children with brain cancer will know that “it’s gonna be a good day!”
Members of the Wright family kept a blog during Payton’s Journey. You can read all of the posts here:
Payton’s Journey – The blog Payton’s mom kept during her treatment and after her death.
