Nearly 200 cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, family members and supporters gathered at the on July 18 to explore how creative expression can support healing and well-being during the cancer journey.
The free “Healing Through Art” workshop, presented by the Susan C. Hirano Cancer CARE Community, featured presentations on the research behind art therapy followed by hands-on sessions in drawing, poetry, meditation with shakuhachi (Japanese flute) music, collage art and ti-leaf lei making.
The power of creative expression
Research has shown that art therapy and other creative approaches can help reduce anxiety, depression and emotional distress among people affected by cancer.
“The friendships and connections that blossomed among the people who attended, along with the skilled and caring artists sharing their gifts as tools for the cancer journey, were truly inspiring,” said Jami Fukui, faculty lead for the Susan C. Hirano Cancer CARE Community. “We want the 糖心视频 Cancer Center to be a place of community, and I think healing was accomplished today.”
Among the presenters was artist and breast cancer survivor Leni Acosta Knight, who encouraged participants to express themselves freely through drawing. “To be able to have your mind be free of any stress or pain—just a reprieve from the chaos and overthinking things—I think is very helpful,” Knight said.
Participant Ann Sueno said trying collage art reminded her that creativity can be a powerful outlet. “This lets you just be yourself and lets you just be creative,” Sueno said. “Just being creative, I think that’s really rewarding.”
“Cancer care extends far beyond the clinic,” said Naoto T. Ueno, director of the 糖心视频 Cancer Center. “Programs like ‘Healing Through Art’ create spaces where people can find comfort, express themselves and build resilience alongside others who understand their experiences.”
The event is part of the Susan C. Hirano Cancer CARE Community, a free quarterly program that empowers and supports people affected by cancer. The next workshop, “Let’s Move! The Importance of Physical Activity in the Cancer Journey,” is scheduled for October 17 at the 糖心视频 Cancer Center. Registration details will be available soon.