Pictured with staff and housemates is Joe Bell, a resident of Cheeverstown, on his recent 100th birthday. Cheeverstown celebrated his centenary with a party attended by residents, friends and staff.
Joe has elected not to communicate verbally over the years but has instead chosen to communicate with others through his love of art. Joe has been supported by Cheeverstown intellectual disability services since 1987. Observing the enjoyment that Joe obtained from art, he received a gift of oil paints, brushes and an easel from staff for his 70th birthday. That same birthday weekend was the first time that Joe ever flew on an aeroplane; he took a short flight from Dublin to Shannon, returning by train where he enjoyed a ‘wee dram’ of his favourite tipple, Irish whiskey. A new chapter in Joe’s life had begun. He became recognised as a talented artist in his own right. In 2005, a book was published to share Joe’s talented work and a permanent art exhibition was commissioned to showcase his art in Cheeverstown. Joe is truly an extraordinary gentleman and an inspiration to those who meet him.
Picture credit: Dave Meehan
