Hi, Michele.
I too am participating in Portrait Project 9/11.
I returned from New York two weeks ago. I flew up there to meet the family of Tommy Foley. I was matched with them in July and felt that this project was too personal to do over the phone. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to meet with them. It was a meeting I will never forget.
I learned a lot about Tommy. He was 32 and a 10 year veteran of an elite rescue squad. He loved excitement and that's why he was a fire fighter. In 2000, he was People Magazine's #10 of 100 Most Eligible Bachelors, and had extra rolls on the Sopranos and Third Watch. He was a rodeo bull rider and did some sky diving. Needless to say, I was very impressed with his abilities.
The most rewarding aspect of this entire project for me is the fact that I am able to touch the lives of his family and offer them a lasting memorial that will be passed from generation to generation. It's also a very personal way to say thank you to those who risk their lives daily for you and me. I have never felt so honored or humbled in any volunteer role as I do with this. I only wish I could do more.
I have begun compositional sketches and hope to start the actual painting this week. There are several things that are important to his family and I want to make sure that they are represented in his portrait.
When the painting is completed, I plan to deliver it in person. I know that that will be a very emotional day.
I would love to hear about your experience with your family and to hear about your firemen as well. I think it is important that we tell their stories.
Lisa
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