Still Healing Two Years After Katrina

Two years later and refugees from Hurricane Katrina are still trying to heal. Today marks the two year anniversary since the storm killed thousands and left many more without homes. Some of those who survived made their homes here in Evansville. Fox 7s Jaimie Weiss spoke with one who is using our community to heal from the loss of their New Orleans community. Billy Hedel says his wounds from Hurricane Katrina are reopened today. But he pushes along with his artwork. In the past two years hes made a name for himself in Evansvilles art community. Much of his work chronicles his healing process. "You know what it means to miss orleans because thats where you left your heart." Its a symbol in a painting - but reality for Billy Hedel. "My wounds arent healed my sores reopened today." Two years ago hedel rode out Hurricane Katrina -while sitting among the ruins of the city he sketched what he was seeing. "This piece is one of my favorites." About a week after the storm he moved to the Tri-State, turning those sketches into individual paintings. "Theres over 150 sketches in that book I might have tapped into 50." Hes sold off some, sending the money back to those still trying to make their lives in the damaged city. One of his neighbors just moved back into their home last week. "People are still struggling really hard." Hedel hasnt struggled with finding a home, but rather getting past guilt and anger for the past two years. "Now Im at the point where I dont want this story left in the dark." These are his two most recent paintings from his sketch book. They definitely shed light on the situation. "I think nothing has been learned." After two years he says its time to move his work in a different direction. "I want to get back into that state where Im a little more comfortable happy." Maybe revisiting the sketches in five years, when his heart will heal some more. Hedel says hes made one trip back to his home, but cut it short because the damage was too painful to see. He hopes try visiting again this fall.