Title: Burden: Release & Walk Away
Name of Artist: Jen Haefeli
Date/Year of Completion: 2004
Medium: Mixed Media/Fiberart
Materials: Satin, Satin Ribbon, Zipper, Thread, Cardboard Gift Boxes, Medical Supplies, Printed statements on vellum, Plastic gloves, Empty pill capsules
Dimensions: 29” x 72”
Price: NFS
Images by Photographer Melissa Lew

Burden: Release & Walk Away is a cathartic piece. I created it in response to living with Crohn’s Disease for just over a decade. The disease requires commitments, like a marriage. Living with it is like a dance. One can accept the differences it brings, or the mental load can be unbearable. The routine removal of polyps. Difficulties with pregnancy, and even the loss of a child. Not participating in some activities. Learning how to navigate life a bit differently. Less social interaction. Fluctuations in weight. Fatigue. Nausea. Judgment from peers who don’t understand the disease. One can find ways to adapt, or continually fight against the new version of themselves and feel immeasurable negativity due to the miserable disruptions and side effects. After years of fighting, this piece is symbolic of my decision to change my perspective regarding my diagnosis. Rather than focusing on the burdens associated with the disease, I have opted to recognize what my body is communicating. I may never see the cure to IBDs, though I haven’t given up hope that research will pave a path to the end of the misery for others. I am committed to giving myself the time that I need, and the rest I deserve, and I work with my teams and advocate for myself and others. I have released the burden and I am walking away from the fear. This commitment is for life, my life.