Artist Sheri Grube Donates Proceeds to Dystonia Medical Research Foundation

BURNSVILLE, Minn. - May 20, 2021 - PRLog -- Art is Sheri Grube's passion, and it provides an unexpected benefit: the act of painting often reduces the tremors and muscle spasms she experiences due to dystonia, a neurological disorder. "When the dystonia is bad, it's like a charley horse cramp in your neck or jaw that doesn't go away. It's there 24/7," she said. Since 2005 Grube has worked as a part-time visual artist and "full-time dystonia awareness advocate." She is partnering with the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) to support research toward a dystonia cure through sales of her work.

Grube worked in the construction industry as a mechanical designer before being forced to retire early due to carpal tunnel syndrome. After one of multiple carpal tunnel surgeries, she suffered transverse myelitis, an inflammation of the spinal cord. After she recovered from transverse myelitis, the tremors and dystonia began. It took five years for her to be diagnosed.

"When the dystonia started, I felt like my life was hijacked. It was a huge loss," said Grube. Art provided the opportunity to "transfer myself to another universe" and focus on the beauty of the natural world. Her vibrant paintings reflect a deep respect for the environment, from landscapes and ecosystems to seeds and microscopic scenes.

"Something I talk about all the time with a friend who is blind is that we are not disabled, we are differently-abled. Sometimes my differences make things more difficult, but I still enjoy life like anyone else would," Grube said.

Grube's paintings vary in media, size, and pricing. A portfolio is available at: https://artsherigrube.com/

Dystonia is a chronic, often debilitating, neurological disorder marked by excessive muscle contractions that cause involuntary body movements and postures. Estimates suggest that dystonia affects 250,000 Americans and millions worldwide. Common signs include abnormal movements or positions of the head, neck pain, excessive blinking, a breathy or strangled-sounding voice, hand cramps, or a twisted foot. Dystonia often occurs with tremor. Although there is not yet a cure, treatment options are available including oral medications, botulinum neurotoxin injections, and deep brain stimulation.

The Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) is the leading dystonia patient advocacy organization. Founded in 1976, the DMRF mission is to advance research toward improved treatments and a cure, promote education and awareness, and provide support resources to affected individuals and families. The DMRF can be reached at https://dystonia-foundation.org or 800-377-DYST (3978).