laurie ellen

My sister, Laurie Ellen Neustadt, continues to inspire me 25 years after her passing at age 45.

Laurie Ellen was a deeply spiritual woman with an eclectic approach to beliefs and practices. She loved being Jewish and was active in the Jewish renewal movement, but Sufism also called to her. She sought to unite people of faith through her art and the interfaith meditation garden she created at Edgewood College in Wisconsin, where she taught art therapy.

She also worked with seniors in groundbreaking ways. With her singing partner, Stuart Stotts, she created songs reflecting the lives of elders, performing in nursing homes and at conferences.

Growing up, I was the practical one, while Laurie Ellen was the creative spirit with a beautiful voice. I pursued a career in law, convinced I lacked creativity. Laurie Ellen always encouraged me to express my creative side, but it wasn't until after her passing and my own cancer diagnosis that I allowed my creative spirit to flourish. In doing so, I keep her spirit alive within me. My sister's example continues to guide and inspire me every day.