Proceeds from the Race for Hope fund programs and resources at the June E. Nylen Cancer Center that directly benefit patients.
One of those programs: Art therapy. It's a unique way for patients to express their cancer journey.
Donna Shaver is a survivor of, not only breast cancer, but lung cancer, as well. Through her five year journey with the diseases, art is one of the avenues she used to get her through.
Donna created a piece called the "Four Seasons Collage" which was displayed at the Cancer Center's art show.
But she says it's not only the art itself, but the interaction with other patients that makes this program so meaningful.
"The way you get your feelings out is actually the communication with the other patients that are working with you – whether they're helping you or you're helping them, you don't really know, but it's just a good feeling to be working with your hands and doing something fun," says Shaver.
And the program isn't just for cancer patients. Caregivers, volunteers and family and friends of cancer survivors are invited to use art as a healing tool.
"I consider art therapy as very much a spiritual experience. It's coming from a deeper place of who we are as a human person, says Sister Janet Schumacher with the June E. Nylen Cancer Center.
Giving hope through a very dark time: art is the true reflection of the spirit of a survivor.
"It's great to still be alive! There's gotta be a reason God still wants me here!" says Shaver.
If you're interested in the art therapy program at the Cancer Center, no previous skills or training is needed. You can contact Sister Janet at 712-252-9387 or schumacherj@jencc.com or stop by her office at the Cancer Center.
