I haven’t seen my older brother Mike since 2013. He lives in a geriatric group home on the east coast and I live on the west coast. Mike is autistic, nonverbal and low functioning. The staff takes good care of him, sending him to the hospital when needed. My younger brother Dave alerted me to expect a video chat from Mike’s hospital. With the COVID outbreak, visitors are not allowed; the hospital decided to connected with loved ones.

As I said, Mike is nonverbal and, from my last visit (see The Visit – trigger warnings, I was a bit graphic in my upset) I knew that Mike has no idea who I am.  However, it was very nice to see him even though I spent our five minutes saying his name and telling him that I am his brother.

Quarantine Portrait Series: Hospital Visit with Brother Mike
Watercolor Tinted Pencil Sketch
9″x12″ 140# Cold Pressed Watercolor Block