Artist With Neurological Condition Finds New Purpose
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Meital Peretz, an Israeli artist diagnosed with cerebellar ataxia, has overcome physical and emotional challenges to establish a support group for individuals with disabilities. The group, 'Yachad,' offers a community for shared coping and aims to expand nationwide.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Meital Peretz founded a support group for people with disabilities.
- She was diagnosed with cerebellar ataxia after experiencing progressive neurological symptoms.
- The condition led to mobility issues, vocal cord paralysis, and divorce.
- Peretz adapted her artistic career to painting with spatulas.
- The support group 'Yachad' aims to foster community and resilience.
Meital Peretz, a 38-year-old artist and mother from Bustan HaGalil, has found a new calling after a debilitating neurological condition drastically altered her life. Until age 27, Peretz enjoyed a successful career as a bridal makeup artist and hairstylist, was married to a career officer, and had just given birth to her son, Harel. Three months postpartum, she began experiencing weakness in her right hand, initially dismissing it as a vitamin deficiency. Her attempts to seek medical help were met with skepticism, with one doctor suggesting postpartum depression. After extensive testing, Peretz was eventually diagnosed with cerebellar ataxia, a neurological syndrome believed to be caused by a virus that attacked her nervous system. The condition led to progressive deterioration, including loss of function in her left leg, vocal cord paralysis requiring two surgeries, and significant balance and coordination issues, confining her to a wheelchair.
The illness and its consequences also led to her divorce two years after the symptoms began. Peretz described feeling broken and isolated, struggling to care for her young son and mourning the loss of her dream career. She moved in with her parents, who provided crucial support, and eventually, with the help of a foreign caregiver, began to rebuild her life. She discovered a passion for painting with spatulas, adapting her artistic skills to her physical limitations.
Feeling a profound sense of loneliness and a lack of social connection with others facing similar challenges, Peretz was inspired to create a support group. With the guidance of a rehabilitation psychologist, she co-founded "Yachad - A Community for Shared Coping with Disability in Midlife" four years ago. The group, which meets weekly in Acre and currently has nine participants, provides a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, find comfort, and rebuild their lives. Peretz hopes to expand the initiative to other parts of the country, aiming to help more people find community and resilience in the face of adversity.