Lima Ohio -
Art isn't just a hobby for Thomas Hayes, it was a way of life. He was a graphic artist at GM for nearly 40 years, but after his stroke two years ago, Hayes lost cognitive abilities and motor skills. His daughter Lisa says these workshops help him re-discover the artist within.
She says painting helps him recover the writing and drawing skills that he lost after the stroke. This is Thomas and Lisa's third workshop with Tony. Lisa says Tony serves as Thomas's inspiration, and that he writes encouraging emails to Thomas throughout the year.
Couch, however, says Lisa is the real inspiration. She takes notes and pictures for her father to help him keep up with the lectures.
" She's an inspiration for me and everyone else here," said Couch.
Even though Thomas depends on Lisa during the workshops he's looking forward to the next time he meets his inspiration.
"Tony's the best and that's all there is to it," said Thomas.
