Monica Elizabeth Taes

August 20, 1954 to April 16, 1998

She could shoot a rifle better than Dick Cheney, ride her Morgan horses to win ribbons, raise her kids on her own, and paint like it was as natural as breathing.

Her first battle with cancer she won, and traveled to Europe to visit relatives to celebrate. Upon her return, she told me that she knew things weren’t right. Another battle ensued, but this one was too great. Unable to deal with the technicalities of her disease, she appointed me as her medical liaison. The news was devastating. A friend of mine who had battled the same disease 3 times prior became someone for her to focus on. When he died, I kept that a secret.

She was genuinely surprised to receive help from strangers. During our last lucid conversation, she told me how she wanted to give back to the community. Monica was the twin I never had. While I have two brothers, it was always Monica who understood and stood by me. My bone marrow was such a close match the doctors were stunned. It was simply filtered and given to her without the use of anti-rejection medications.

Now with Raven House Publishing LLC, I can help her achieve her goal. The painting of the girl with golden locks and the one with the Siamese cat will be produced at original size for a limit of 500 prints with a certificate of authenticity. Of the $500 per piece, a minimum of $300 each will be donated to the Neely House on her behalf.

Monica's Artwork

Siamese

Golden Girl

Oven Kitty