Creative Woodworks & crafts 2000-10, страница 53

Sometimes in life we meet:people who make us ask ourselves "Would / react with the same determination, attitude and grace if I were placed in a similar situation? " I'd like to introduce two couples who have caused me to stop and think.

by Marilyn Carmin of Heartland Creations

RON AND JEAN ADENAU

After 31 years of marriage, with their five children grown. Ron and Jean Adenau of St. Helens, Oregon were looking to the future. Ron, 51, was a lour foreman at Boise C'ascadc Paper Mill and still had quite some time before his retirement. The Adenaus were looking forward to that time. A new motor home, travel destinations studied, fishing trips discussed, the future held the promise of all their plans.

Ron was bom and raised in Chicago, Illinois. After a stint in the Navy, Ron and Jean were married and settled in St. Helens, which was Jean's hometown. Ron kept busy by hunting, fishing, camping, fixing lawnmowers and cars, and he was always there to remedy anyone's problems. Jean concentrated on her gardening, sewing, and needlework. Together they raised their family. Life was good.

But in 1988 a paralyzing stroke brought Ron's life to an abrupt standstill. Now Ron, completely paralyzed on the right side and totally dependent on others, was facing a difficult, lengthy rehabilitation.

The winter of 1988 was a long, hard time for the Adenaus, one of devastation and depression, wondering where their lives were heading.

A visiting friend suggested that scroll sawing might interest Ron. It seemed impossible. Up to that point, Ron's lclt hand had only been used as a help to his dominant right hand. Ron and Jean decided to give it a try anyway. They purchased a small RBI Hawk scroll saw and together began to make some projects to paint and give as gifts. The Adenaus found that not only was scroll sawing fun, it was also a way to be together outside the confines of the house. They felt productive once again. Scroll sawing began to heal the emptiness that the stroke had loll in both of them.

Then three years ago, Jean was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor on her right hand. After a partial amputation, radiation, rehabilitation, and with limited use of the remaining thumb and two fingers, Jean refused to give up. This would not affect their woodworking.

Over the years, Ron has cut out the names of each family member. Jean likes carousels, so together they designed several and have made over a hundred in all. They have also purchased their second RBI Hawk, this time the large 26" saw, and they continue to try new patterns. With the help of clamps and jigs, Ron can now use most of his wood shop with his left hand. Jean is there to help when needed.

They have become active in other ways too. Ron has found the computer very handy in communicating with family and friends and makes cards for every occasion. Jean still enjoys her gardening and both scour garage sales and thrift stores, hunting for frames and plaques to enhance their scroll work.

October, 2000 53

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