Luke D

Age 17

Demelza Community

"Dog Marley"

Luke is a 17 year old young man, who has Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and a moderate learning disability. He had his first seizure just before his seventh birthday and was subsequently diagnosed with the condition. Luke has lost some fine motor skills and has deteriorated cognitively. He requires one-to-one care at all times. He can have up to 13 seizures a day, after which he experiences sensory impairment and can be disorientated and confused. After these episodes Luke has to be taught some normal daily skills again, including social skills.

Despite this, Luke has a mischievous sense of humour, which can sometimes be surprisingly mature. He is always eager to join in activities, and particularly enjoys music, art, football and athletics. Luke has been supported by Demelza since 2007.

Luke chose Bob Marley as his hero, because he and his family all enjoy his music. They came together as a family and researched his life, music and beliefs. Luke likes the fact that Bob Marley was trying to stop the fighting in Jamaica. His favourite Bob Marley song is ‘Buffalo Soldier'. He has called his painting ‘Dog Marley', because he painted his nose too big and he thinks it looks like a dog. ‘Dog Marley' was created during four art sessions with Luke.

Please note this case study (images and copy) must not be used or replicated in any other form without prior consent from Children's Hospices UK.

This artwork is on canvas and measures 600mm wide, by 770mm, by 60mm deep.