Artwork created by rehab patient to be raffled off

Artwork done by Samantha Byrnes, a patient at the Adult & Child Rehab Center in Woodstock, is being raffled off at the BCU credit union in Crystal Lake through the end of the month.

Eight-year-old Samantha, attends Westwood Elementary School in Woodstock. She has been diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy, which is a progressive degenerative neuromuscular disease that weakens the muscles, and has been receiving occupational and physical therapy at the rehab center for more than five years. The intense therapy that Samantha undergoes improves her strength so she can continue to be an active student.

Samantha's artwork and other patients' artwork were compiled to create a 2008 calendar. Each month features a different piece of art by a different patient, along with a small biography on that patient and an inspirational quote.

For the first time, the center took the artwork from the calendar and made note cards. The cards feature the artwork on the front. They are blank inside so they can be used for all occasions.

Raffle tickets for the artwork are $5 each or three for $10. Calendars are $10 each. The note cards come in a package of six and are $6 each.

All can be purchased at BCU, 415 S. Main St. in Crystal Lake. All proceeds will benefit the Adult & Child Rehab Center, which has been provides therapy and nursing services to the residents of McHenry County.