Myron Loop, a 78-year-old veteran and former steel mill maintenance worker, has found new motivation in life through art and health after experiencing profound loss. Following the death of his wife Violet in 2020, Myron faced depression and chronic health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Myron's journey began when he met his wife Violet in 1980. Together, they renovated an old home where Myron discovered his passion for building furniture. "It was a piece of junk; it looked terrible, but she handed me some drawings and said, ‘Here, I want one.’ A coat rack was the first piece of furniture I ever made; I ended up making 26 of them," Myron recalled.
In 1997, Violet suffered a stroke that left her unable to walk. Myron retired to become her full-time caregiver. "We traveled everywhere. I look back at the time we spent after the stroke, and it was fun for me; I got to spend that time with her," he said.
After Violet's passing, Myron struggled with depression and lost interest in activities he once loved. His family encouraged him to seek help from Faith Atai, MD, a geriatric medicine physician at UTHealth Houston. Dr. Atai noted that Myron had become complacent about his health issues while caring for Violet.
“People tend to underestimate the demands of being a caregiver and subconsciously put themselves on hold,” Dr. Atai explained. She emphasized the psychological toll caregiving can take on individuals.
With Dr. Atai's guidance, Myron addressed his chronic conditions through specialist consultations and physical therapy while also undergoing dental reconstruction. He opened up about his grief and began focusing on staying healthy and independent.
“I explained that his family wants him healthy and independent, but they also want to be relevant to him," Dr. Atai stated. She highlighted the importance of staying active or picking a hobby for socialization as people age.
Inspired by this support, Myron resumed creating art by turning pens and carving wooden spoons as gifts for others. “Dr. Atai showed me that you have to do something. It might as well be something that means something to you,” he shared.
Myron continues receiving care while reconnecting with activities he loves.
