Lilly Oncology On Canvas:Expressions of a Cancer Journey

Lilly Oncology On Canvas: Expressions of a Cancer Journey Selections from the 2014 Art Competition and Exhibition

Lilly Oncology On Canvas:

Expressions of a Cancer Journey

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Table of Contents Lilly Oncology and the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship wish to thank our 2014 judges for reviewing the many incredible entries we were honored to receive.

Introduction

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NCCS Perspective

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Art Director’s Perspective

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Ten-Year Retrospective

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The Hope Murals Project

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2014 Category Winners

29

The Entries

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Front cover: “Visions of Hope” Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer from Pennsylvania



Oil

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Back cover: “Beautiful Courage” Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer from Washington



Acrylic

61



Watercolor

123

The graphics, photos, images, information, and text contained in this book honor the journeys of the people who entered the 2014 Lilly Oncology On Canvas Art Competition and are the property of Lilly USA, LLC.



Pastel

155



Photography

169



Mixed Media

229

We are especially grateful to all of our entrants for their generosity and courage in sharing their journeys and inspiring others.

PLEASE KNOW THAT SOME OF THE ARTWORK MAY CONTAIN PARTIAL OR FULL NUDE DEPICTIONS OF THE HUMAN BODY. The publication of this book does not constitute a waiver of any of the proprietary rights of Lilly (including, but not limited to, copyrights or trademarks) or a grant of any proprietary rights to any other person. You may not sell, reprint, republish, or copy, in any form or media, the graphics, photos, images, information and text, or any portion thereof without the prior written consent of Lilly USA, LLC. This book is not for sale. At the editor’s discretion, some images were not included in the book. The book does display the majority of the images and conveys the spirit of the competition. The text of certain narratives accompanying the artwork may have been slightly modified in order to protect an individual’s privacy or comply with other regulations. Every effort has been made to maintain the integrity of the narratives and to keep any modification to an absolute minimum. The presenters rely in good faith on the contestants’ express representations as to the origins of the art submitted to this competition; the presenters make no representations about the authenticity and originality of the art.

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The Journey Continues

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Some see paint. Others see hope. “Is what I am doing right now helping a person living with cancer?” These words are printed on a small card that the people of Lilly Oncology carry every day. They are the words that keep us focused on our promise to make life better for all those who are on the cancer journey. We know discoveries in medicine are vital to treating cancer, but emotional support is vital to people living with cancer and those who care for them. In 2004, Lilly Oncology, the National Coalition of Cancer Survivorship (NCCS), and members of the cancer community came together to launch Lilly Oncology On Canvas: Expressions of a Cancer Journey. In image and word, thousands of people have shared their stories with countless others through exhibits in clinics and museums, and in books like this one, to create and share that most vital medicine: hope. Each of the more than 4,400 works of art and narrative contributed over the last 10 years serves as a guide that makes it possible for someone to hope forward and find their way on the cancer journey one pastel, one acrylic, one watercolor, one word at a time. As one Oncology On CanvasSM contributor writes: “In my work as an art therapist, I am inspired by how powerful the art-making experience can be… By creating personally meaningful artwork together, cancer survivors form deep connections to each other and share empowering images of hope, light, and growth. Together they are stronger, brighter, and no longer alone in the journey of survivorship.” There are millions of untold cancer stories happening every day. And while we look forward to a day when there are no cancer stories to tell—until then, we are determined to do all we can to support people on their cancer journey. In 2014, to commemorate the program’s 10-year anniversary, art from Lilly Oncology On Canvas was transformed into 10 Hope Murals. At mural-painting events in 10 cities across the US and in Puerto Rico, community members came together to raise awareness and bring one artist’s vision to life in a way that can be shared by many in an enduring way. Our special thanks go out to the 10 partnering institutions sponsoring these events in each city to celebrate life, survival, and the strength of the human spirit. As we look to the future of this program, we are inspired by the response to The Hope Murals Project and will continue to expand the ways people can participate in Lilly Oncology On Canvas. To NCCS and all who have contributed their passion and time, stories and art, to the first 10 years of Lilly Oncology On Canvas, we express our deepest gratitude. We hope you find both affirmation and inspiration in the creativity expressed in this book, which we dedicate to all those whose lives have been touched by cancer. Sincerely,

John Lechleiter and Sue Mahoney

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It is with great pride that the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS) looks back at the 10-year history of Lilly Oncology On Canvas. Art can be a powerful therapeutic tool for those touched by cancer, and it has been an honor for us to copresent this special competition and exhibition. Over the years, we have helped to judge thousands of entries. The judging process is both challenging and rewarding, and we have felt privileged to be a part of it. At NCCS, an organization founded by and for cancer survivors, our mission is to advocate for quality cancer care for all people touched by cancer. The founders of NCCS championed the now widely accepted definition of cancer survivor as any person diagnosed with cancer, from the time of diagnosis and for the balance of life. Our definition has since expanded to include family, friends, and caregivers, who are often impacted by the full spectrum of survivorship issues. We are proud to be able to be involved with Oncology On CanvasSM, which encourages the participation of not just individuals diagnosed with any kind of cancer, but their families and friends, caregivers, and health care providers. Looking at the wonderful art produced and reading their accompanying stories is always a meaningful, touching experience for us, and it reminds us of why we do the work that we do. Art and narrative, while not a panacea, can bring comfort to those struggling with cancer and can help individuals share their experience with others. Coping with cancer goes beyond the treatments that follow a diagnosis. The side effects from cancer are not just physical, and it can be helpful to find an outlet to deal with the stress, anxiety, or depression that cancer survivors sometimes face. NCCS addresses these facets of the cancer journey through programs like Lilly Oncology On Canvas and by providing publications and resources such as our award-winning Cancer Survival Toolbox® to patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. The Toolbox helps people develop the skills needed to meet the challenges of living with cancer and to cope with change and uncertainty. In our public policy work to improve the quality of cancer care, NCCS recognizes that the discussion must go beyond just the physical aspects of cancer. We make sure that the needs of cancer survivors are not overlooked, whether those needs are physical or emotional. The beautiful works of art that are submitted through Lilly Oncology On Canvas, accompanied by their poignant stories, serve to remind us of the power of the human spirit and one’s ability to meet the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. As a final note, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has participated in Lilly Oncology On Canvas over the years. It is a privilege to be part of a program that is so personal to your experience, and we are grateful that you have let us share in your journey. Sincerely,

Shelley Fuld Nasso

Chief Executive Officer National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship

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Art Director’s Perspective Since Lilly Oncology On Canvas was first launched 10 years ago, there have been more than 4,400 life stories told through art. I have served as the competition’s Art Director since its inception in 2004, which means I have had the honor of receiving and experiencing each and every submission, and, on many occasions, the privilege of speaking with many entrants about their cancer journeys. For this year’s art book, I was asked to share with you those entries that have touched me the most. However, this was an assignment I could not complete because to me and the Oncology On Canvas SM team, every submission is a cherished story to treasure. So instead, to mark the competition’s 10th anniversary milestone, I wanted to share six entries I feel are representative of the journeys I have viewed and read over the past 10 years. In closing, I wanted to let you know that Lilly Oncology On Canvas has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Every submission is etched in my mind and in my heart—and there are not enough words to thank the more than 4,400 participants who have shared their journeys. Sincerely,

Anita Chernewski

Lilly Oncology On Canvas Art Competition Director

2008

Anita’s comment: I chose this picture of a cat to represent the countless submissions we’ve received over the years where the pets of those on a cancer journey take center stage. Their pets provide them with unconditional love and patience, both of which are crucial to the healing process. La Mumee Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Puerto Rico “When our 11-year-old boy fell ill with cancer, he had a prolonged hospitalization…He found no solace in our promise that he would see (his cat) soon, and asked time and again if we could please sneak her into his room so he could pet her…To this day, six months into total remission, this boy does not go to bed before collecting his beloved cat to share his pillow...only then he can rest.”*

*Narrative extract

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Art Director’s Perspective Anita’s comment: This entrant’s spiritual journey with cancer made her realize that, even if she lost her battle against the disease, her unharmed soul would be going to a better place. Thankfully, when she submitted this artwork she was doing well. However, she noted she spiritually remained in this prayerful position to thank God for a chance to share her journey and inspire others— precisely what Lilly Oncology On Canvas is all about.

2010

A Survivor’s Prayer Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Virginia “Each time I came home from a procedure, I’d take off my band and place it on my desk. I soon had a pile of bands that represented my physical journey with cancer. This portrait symbolizes my spiritual journey.”*

Anita’s comment: This is the cancer journey of a 57-year-old whaler in Alaska. I wanted to share this story because it signifies how the cancer journey can be so different for each individual, but at the same time be so universal for all who have to go through it. This entrant noted that, because of his cancer diagnosis, he was no longer able to provide meat for his family. Cancer took his strength and tried to take his sense of worth—but the disease failed to do so since, ultimately, he found another way to support his family by creating jewelry and art. Love Thru Cancer Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Alaska “I was a very active hunter and whaler, and all that was taken away from me by cancer. I was diagnosed with esophageal cancer…and from there on I went through aggressive chemotherapy and radiation therapy 1,000 miles away from my family in Anchorage… They would tell me that since I was away, no one was there to hunt, so they had to buy meat...Today I am at home making jewelry and doing artwork. When I get stronger, I will pursue both hunting and whaling again!”*

*Narrative extract

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2012

Anita’s comment: Lastly, I wanted to share three of the submissions we’ve received from a healthcare provider who has entered every Oncology On CanvasSM competition. She represents all the healthcare professionals who have participated over the past 10 years. Her—and their—compassion and dedication to patients is evident in the art they create and for that, we are all very grateful.

2006

2008

2014

Hope Is The Key

Memorialized

Duel Within

Oil by a Healthcare Professional Texas

Oil by a Healthcare Professional Texas

Oil by a Healthcare Professional Texas

“Mankind has an inextinguishable torch fueled by the will to live in which the cancer survivor finds hope from relentless innovated research for treatment, strong community support, and their own conviction for survival.”*

“In this painting, I have memorialized this 21-year-old college student who relinquished his life to cancer. As his nurse, I was honored with his confidence and was impressed with his courage and resilience.”*

“The painting is about a woman I encountered once. Myeloma almost engulfed her life. Modern medicine rescued her from near death. Now she is in remission. But the lingering fear of ‘when it will be back’ is always there. Yet, she doesn’t want to show this to her loved ones.”*

*Narrative extract

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Lilly Oncology On Canvas, a signature campaign highlighting Lilly Oncology’s commitment to the patient As recently as 10 years ago, as the fight against cancer continued to advance, there was one aspect of the disease that remained in the shadows: the emotional toll of cancer on patients and their circle of love and care. As a way to help those affected by cancer—beyond medicine—in 2004, Lilly Oncology created the Lilly Oncology On Canvas: Expressions of a Cancer Journey Art Competition and Exhibition. Presented in partnership with the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, the competition invites individuals diagnosed with cancer—and their family members, friends, caregivers, and healthcare professionals—to express the life-affirming changes that give their cancer journeys meaning. The 2014 competition marks the 10th anniversary of Oncology On CanvasSM. During the past decade, it has attracted more than 4,400 inspiring entries. It has also garnered recognition by the medical, patient, and advocacy communities for successfully illuminating the full spectrum of emotions brought on by cancer. In essence, what began as a modest breast cancer-focused art competition open to submissions from women has evolved into a renowned, traveling art exhibition; a centerpiece for advocacy events; a hospital outreach program; an awards program; an engaged social media community; the subject of hundreds of media stories; and compelling artwork featured on the covers of peer-reviewed journals. To help mark this milestone, we have created a timeline of memorable moments from each competition year. We dedicate it to the thousands of competition participants who have shared their stories—and to all individuals worldwide whose lives have been touched by cancer.

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Ten Years of Sharing the Hope 2007 Lilly Oncology On Canvas by the numbers: • 4,400+ entries from 43 countries • 3,500+ exhibits in 200+ cities • 1 billion media impressions • 2,600+ Facebook likes • 4,500+ YouTube views • 900+ Twitter followers • 133,000+ books distributed

2006 Art Competition • Receives more than 2,000 entries from 43 countries

2004 Art Competition • Launches at major medical congresses American Society of Clinical Oncology European Society for Medical Oncology European Society for Radiotherapy & Oncology • Receives more than 400 entries from 23 countries

2004

2005

Weeklong exhibit at a Manhattan art gallery is viewed by hundreds.

2007 Art Exhibition • Tours 200 cities worldwide

2006

2005 Art Exhibition • Exhibition kicks off in more than 100 cities; major events at Royal College of Art (London) and Union Station (Washington, DC), which features ABC News correspondent Cokie Roberts • Estimated 25,000 people view art exhibit over a 3-week period 2005

Viewing of Lilly Oncology On Canvas Art Competition artwork at the Royal College of Art in London— the first exhibit to be held.

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2007

2008 Art Competition • Competition’s global focus shifts to call for entries from US and Puerto Rico residents • Receives nearly 600 entries • On Live with Regis and Kelly, Regis Philbin displays artwork and recognizes first-place winner • Philbin also hosts winners’ event and exhibit of hundreds of entries at downtown New York art gallery •L  illy Oncology On Canvas on Twitter and Facebook platforms launch

2008

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2009 Art Exhibition • Artwork tours hundreds of sites across the United States and Puerto Rico 2009

Three-day exhibit at a Manhattan art gallery attracts hundreds.

2010 Art Competition • Receives more than 600 entries • Olympic gold medalist and cancer survivor Scott Hamilton hosts winners’ event and major art exhibition in Washington DC’s historic Union Station • Lilly Oncology and NCCS create The Ellen Stovall Award, named to recognize the cofounder of NCCS; Katie Couric (Today Show, CBS Evening News) becomes the first recipient for her advocacy for cancer patients and survivors •L  illy Oncology On Canvas YouTube channel launches where thousands have learned how to use art as a way to tell their cancer journey

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2012

2010

2012 Art Competition • Receives more than 500 entries • Today with Kathie Lee & Hoda cohost and cancer survivor Hoda Kotb becomes the second recipient of The Ellen Stovall Award

Washington, DC’s historic Union Station transforms into a major Lilly Oncology On Canvas Art Exhibition for a day so that thousands of commuters and visitors can experience the cancer journey.

2010 2014

2011

Hoda Kotb receives the 2012 Ellen Stovall Award, which recognizes those who use their art and/or celebrity to be a true champion and advocate for cancer survivorship.

2012

2011 Art Exhibition • Artwork tours hundreds of sites across the United States and Puerto Rico

2014

E! News and Fashion Police cohost and cancer survivor Giuliana Rancic becomes the third recipient of The Ellen Stovall Award.

New York’s historic Grand Central Terminal was turned into a Lilly Oncology On Canvas Art Exhibition, at which thousands of commuters and visitors helped transform an entry themed to stomach cancer into a Hope Mural.

2013

2014

2013 Art Exhibition • Tours hundreds of sites across the United States and Puerto Rico 2014 Art Competition • To honor the 10-year anniversary of Oncology On CanvasSM, Lilly Oncology creates The Hope Murals Project, which brings inspirational pieces of competition art to life in 10 cities, in the form of 10 murals painted by community members and the original artists or their surviving family members • Receives over 250 entries from across the United States and Puerto Rico • E! News and Fashion Police cohost and cancer survivor Giuliana Rancic becomes the third recipient of The Ellen Stovall Award • Competition announces 2014 top three winners at Grand Central event and invites hundreds of commuters and visitors to join in painting New York’s Hope Mural • Pinterest and Instagram channels launch, further building an online support community for those touched by cancer 11

Ten Years of Sharing the Hope Best of Exhibition–1st Prize Overall Winner (International)

2004

2nd Prize Overall Winner (International)

On Hearing The News

May Now Live / After Chemotherapy 1,2,3

Mexico Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

Turkey Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer

“While the darkness weighs over her, still there is light in her that sustains the hope of surviving the difficult journey of cancer.”*

“The transposing of feelings with the energy which comes from heart to the canvas strengthens man.”*

1st Prize Winner (US)

*Narrative extract

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2nd Prize Winner (US)

Metamorphosis

Healing

Oil by a Healthcare Professional

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer

“As her foot is ready to go miles and miles to wage war to conquer the breast cancer, and as her new hair is growing, and as hope comes out of pink ribbon, she will continue the journey to recovery and health.”*

“What falls away from these wings? Fear of the unknown, tomorrow, death. There is only the present…and it truly is a wonderful gift.”*

2006

Best of Exhibition–1st Prize Overall Winner (International)

2nd Prize Overall Winner (International)

The Long Soak Contemplation England Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer “I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer seven and a half years ago. The news was overwhelming. The painting depicts how I began; absorbing the shock and then going through the feelings of loss, bewilderment and fear of the unknown.”*

South Africa Oil by a Healthcare Professional “At the end of a long course of chemotherapy and radiation – many patients express the wish to celebrate with a long soak in the bath (and a bottle of champagne!) To physically luxuriate in the water and to mentally ‘wash away’ the treatment.”* 2nd Prize Winner (US)

1st Prize Winner (US)

Tranquility Photography by a Healthcare Professional

This Is Not a Dress Rehearsal

“The lovely purple water lilies are a reminder of patients who have pancreatic cancer attempting to maintain harmony, but always with a ripple of the reminder of the unknown that may be encountered in their cancer journey.”*

Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver “Our precious daughter felt strongly about these words from an early age. It was as if she knew something the rest of us did not know.”*

*Narrative extract

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2008

Best of Exhibition–1st Prize Winner

2nd Prize Winner

As I Am, Beautiful and Whole

C. in Bedroom

California Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

Massachusetts Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

“I stood back and felt my painting from deep within. An observer in the room said, ‘She doesn’t need her other breast. I love her.’ I agreed without hesitation. The woman in my painting was complete. I thought to myself, ‘As you are: beautiful and whole.’”*

“This small, intimate series of paintings reflects the intimacy that I was allowed to observe— bedroom rituals we all participate in but somehow made more vulnerable by the cosmetic adaptations that a woman, post-mastectomy, goes through as she transitions between a private and public physical self.”*

3rd Prize Winner (Tie)

3rd Prize Winner (Tie)

Moons In The Wind

Traces

New York Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer

Connecticut Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

“My painting reflects many moons; a flower grows, and day and night coheres in multi-hued movement… I cannot harness the wind when it blows my fury. I know it will soon abate and allow quietude.”*

“All of these people have inspired me with their courage, hope, strength and desire for life. But of all these people, the one who inspired and enabled me the most is my late husband, a photographer, who lost his battle with lung cancer. As his friend, wife and caregiver, words cannot adequately express what we experienced; those who have been there know.”*

*Narrative extract

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2010

Best of Exhibition–1st Prize Winner

Wild Water Arizona Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer “I can coast smoothly for a while, but any negative change leads to another bumpy ride down the falls. Yet as the rushing water continues on its path, I plan to continue surviving and weaving a beautiful life.”*

3rd Prize Winner

2nd Prize Winner

Breathing Room Michigan Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer “As an artist who works with fabrics, I needed to visualize what was happening inside my body. So I made this collage of my lungs, surrounded by hope in the form of leaves and flowers.”*

No Words New Jersey Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer “I realized I needed to tell my story and wrote it all down; 150 pages later, I found I had finally untangled myself from cancer’s grip. I said goodbye; goodbye past, goodbye pain, goodbye cancer.”*

*Narrative extract

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2012 Best of Exhibition–1st Prize Winner

2nd Prize Winner

Chemo Brain Wisconsin Best Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer “This picture is my representation of what chemo treatments feel like. Although I look the same after each treatment, internally I feel like my cells and cellular structure are melting away.”* 3rd Prize Winner

Chemo Utah Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer “This quilt shows the work of chemo as it flows through the port into my blood stream. The colored beads represent the chemo, and the white beads signify white blood cells helping my body move towards health.”*

The Dance California Watercolor by a Healthcare Professional

*Narrative extract

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“I have seen this dance many times. The dance of the cancer survivor is an amazing testament to the human spirit. It is a dance of faith, hope and love.”*

2014

Best of Exhibition–1st Prize Winner

Visions of Hope Pennsylvania Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer “Visions of Hope enlightened the soul, giving strength to forge through my cancer tsunami.”*

3rd Prize Winner

2nd Prize Winner

Footsteps to Peace Missouri Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

Beautiful Courage Washington Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer “This painting speaks to what the word courage means to me now that I have gone through cancer and survived. To me, courage need not be loud, prideful, or brash. Courage can be quiet resolve, silent determination, and resilience of spirit. Courage can be both fragile and strong.”*

“This painting is a tribute to someone who I cared about very deeply. It represents her cheerful spirit, which lives on. The footprints represent the struggle she endured throughout her journey to a better place where no pain or sickness can touch her.” *Narrative extract

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THE HOPE MURALS PROJECT 10 Murals, 10 Cities, 10 Years of Cancer Journeys Since 2004, the Lilly Oncology On Canvas: Expressions of a Cancer Journey Art Competition and Exhibition has enabled individuals diagnosed with cancer—as well as their families, friends, caregivers, and healthcare providers—to express their cancer journeys through art and narrative, in partnership with the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS). To commemorate Lilly Oncology On Canvas’ 10th anniversary, Lilly Oncology presented The Hope Murals Project, which brought 10 murals based on the inspirational art from previous competitions to 10 cities across the United States and Puerto Rico. Each Hope Mural was based on the inspirational art from past Oncology On CanvasSM competitions and was chosen through public vote on the Lilly Oncology On Canvas Facebook page. All Hope Murals were created through a collaborative, “paint by number” process. Though it took just one person to create an inspirational piece of art for the competition, it took four designers, more than 60 paintbrushes, up to 10 gallons of paint, and hundreds of people to transform that art into a giant Hope Mural. In partnership with cancer centers and advocacy groups, Lilly Oncology’s Hope Murals Project created a national community art movement by encouraging people and communities to stand together and make a permanent tribute to those who have been touched by cancer.

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Anaheim, California (May 1-4) Nearly 1,000 oncology nurses from across the United States and around the world joined together, paintbrushes in hand, to create the first Hope Mural at the Oncology Nursing Society’s (ONS) 39th Annual Congress in Anaheim, California. The mural was inspired by “Grow, Survive and Blossom,” a 2008 competition entry by 20-year cancer survivor, Sandy Fisher. “Cancer is not always a death sentence, but an invitation to live, a wake-up call to be present in the moment, a permit to love without holding back,” she wrote in her narrative. Following the painting of the mural at ONS, the mural was permanently installed at the Anaheim Public Library.

ONS President Mary Gullatte, PhD, RN, ANP, BC, AOCN, FAAN, makes her mark on the Hope Mural.

Artist and cancer survivor Sandy Fisher joined hundreds of oncology nurses in painting the mural and, along with her family, spoke at the dedication of her mural at the library.

ONS attendees take a break from the conference to paint the Hope Mural “Grow, Survive and Blossom.”

The first Hope Mural was installed at the Anaheim Public Library.

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Chicago, Illinois (May 31-June 2) In recognition of National Cancer Survivors Day on June 1, thousands of oncology professionals showcased their artistic skills at the 50th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in Chicago, where the second Hope Mural, “Creating a New Universe,” was painted. With each brushstroke, the true spirit of the day was brought to life by creating, in partnership with Gilda’s Club and the American Cancer Society, a mural that is a permanent tribute to caregiver Gloria Cichy’s perspective of her sister’s journey with lung cancer.

Lilly Oncology’s Newt Crenshaw, vice president, US and Canada business unit leader, and a cancer survivor, took part in the painting of Chicago’s Hope Mural.

ASCO provided a platform not only for scientific exploration, but also for artistic expression, as meeting attendees joined together to create a permanent tribute to the cancer journey.

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Chicago resident Gloria Cichy (not pictured) was by her sister’s side throughout her lung cancer journey. In her narrative, Cichy wrote: “She lost her hearing, her job, her memory, her control, herself... she resides today in a universe of family, hope and gratefulness, full of unique treatment avenues and fresh hope for cancer patients.”

Cleveland, Ohio (July 18-19) The Hope Murals Project put the rubber to the road in Cleveland at the VeloSano Bike to Cure Ride for Cancer Research. In partnership with the Cleveland Clinic and with help from more than 650 VelaSano attendees, a life-size Hope Mural was created from an Oncology On CanvasSM artwork titled “Complexity.” In the accompanying narrative, the artist described the journey from cancer to recovery as full of obstacles that one must confront. “This painting reflects an inquisitive mind, trying to make sense of the illness.” The mural was installed at the corner of East 66th Street and Hough Avenue across from the Vineyard of Chateau Hough.

Two generations joined to paint a Hope Mural.

“Complexity” is created by painters of all ages.

Hundreds of VelaSano attendees stopped by The Hope Murals Project tent to help create a permanent tribute to those touched by cancer.

The mural installation.

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Washington, DC (August 23) In front of historic Lincoln Memorial, hundreds of volunteers transformed the painting “Freed” into a Hope Mural. Marie Sarmiento created her colorful pastel of a monarch butterfly to illustrate how she started running to overcome the grief she felt after her mother passed away from lung cancer. In her narrative, she wrote: “I like to think that the butterflies crossing my path are my mom, who is always with me—especially when I run.” The DC Hope Mural was installed outside the Marie Reed Elementary School, located at 2201 18th Street NW in Washington, DC.

Visitors of all ages paint the Hope Mural against the backdrop of the Washington Monument.

Families joined to paint the Hope Mural at the Lincoln Memorial.

Nina Wendling, Chief Operating Officer of the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS), joined to paint the mural. NCCS, based in Washington, DC, is a copresenter of Oncology On CanvasSM and the Washington Hope Mural.

Washington, DC’s Hope Mural finds a permanent home at the Marie Reed Elementary School.

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Indianapolis, Indiana (September 6) The Hope Murals Project reached the halfway mark through its 10-mural, 10-city journey after completion of a mural, in partnership with IU Health Simon Cancer Center, in Lilly Oncology’s hometown. The fifth Hope Mural, crafted from the mixed media art submission “Frolicking for Survival,” depicts how the artist’s friends and family helped her dance through moments of turmoil during her cancer treatment. Rosa Maria Dies, the Indiana artist, joined Lilly employees and dozens of community members to complete the mural. The finished piece may be seen near Lucas Oil Stadium at 123 W McCarty Street in South Indianapolis.

Lilly employees and their families use their painting skills to create the Hope Mural.

Rosa Maria Dies, original artist of “Frolicking for Survival,” paints the Hope Mural with family and friends. In her narrative, she wrote: “Today, I am one of many happy cancer survivors, and I aim to give support to other persons who go through the same journey and I invite them to dance all together.”

A father and daughter paint Indianapolis’ Hope Mural.

Rosa Maria Dies is joined by her husband Frederico at the mural’s installation site near Lucas Oil Stadium.

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Dallas, Texas (September 22-23) At a 2-day painting event in Dallas, the Hope Murals team partnered with the Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center to paint “After the Storm,” based on artwork created by caregiver Mary Olivia Tepper. A pastel depiction of the breathtaking Cathedral Rock near Sedona, Arizona, is of special significance to the artist, as noted in her narrative. “This is my husband’s place now. His spirit rests here among the mountains and spires, hillsides and valleys, trees, creeks, sunsets, and summer showers.” The completed mural is on display in the Fair Park area of Dallas.

Baylor Cancer Center visitors paint “After the Storm.”

The Hope Mural is painted in the lobby of Baylor Cancer Center by Baylor staff, patients, and visitors.

“After the Storm” is brought to life at the Baylor Cancer Center.

Texas State Fair attendees can view the Hope Mural in the Fair Park area of Dallas.

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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (September 18) In collaboration with Fox Chase Cancer Center and the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), The Hope Murals Project created a mural in the City of Brotherly Love, titled “Awakening,” with help from the artist, Susan Hope Schaeffer. In her narrative, Schaeffer wrote: “It took cancer to awaken my soul.” The mural—a beautiful testament of hope—was installed in Northeast Philadelphia.

Dozens of Fox Chase Cancer Center staff, patients, and visitors gathered with paintbrushes to leave a lasting tribute to those touched by cancer.

“Awakening” is created with the help of its original artist, Susan Hope Schaeffer (center).

A Fox Chase Cancer Center staff member leaves her thumbprint on the Lilly Oncology On Canvas Traveling Butterfly. The completed butterfly—made up of thousands of fingerprints from all 10 cities, has become a permanent tribute to the lives and journeys shared through Oncology On CanvasSM.

“Awakening” artist Susan Hope Schaeffer was joined by fellow painters Andy Wiersma of Lilly Oncology and Twins Auto Body staff. Schaeffer was also the first-place winner of the 2014 Lilly Oncology On Canvas Art Competition for her entry “Visions of Hope.”

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San Juan, Puerto Rico (October 11) The Hope Murals team journeyed to beautiful San Juan, Puerto Rico, to transform an oil painting into a mural with partner Hospital Auxilio Mutuo. Vanessa Pinta, a resident of Puerto Rico, helped paint the mural based on her art “Soldiers of Love,” which commemorates her late husband’s battle with cancer. “As painting began to fill so many spaces in my life, I understood that ‘Soldiers of Love’ were very important to fight this war,” the artist noted in her narrative. The mural was installed at a market on Calle Santa Ana.

Participants share a laugh during the painting of Puerto Rico’s Hope Mural.

The painting begins to take form through a “paint by number” process.

A Hope Mural is created at the scenic Hospital Auxilio Mutuo under the shade of palm trees.

“Soldiers of Love” finds a permanent home in San Juan.

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New York, New York (October 23) Thousands of commuters and visitors stopped by while journeying through historic Grand Central Terminal to help mark a different type of journey—one involving a cancer diagnosis. The Hope Murals Project, with CancerCare®, The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center of Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital as partners, created a 12-by-20-foot mural based on one artist’s Lilly Oncology On Canvas art submission, “Balancing Act.” In the narrative that accompanied her artwork, the artist stated, “I am cancer-free, but the balancing act never ends.” Among the painters at the event were the top three national winners of the 2014 Lilly Oncology On Canvas Art Competition. The event also featured an exhibition of more than 100 entries from the 2014 competition.

In a single day, the foot traffic through Manhattan’s Grand Central Terminal numbers more than 750,000. Hundreds of those visitors and commuters took the time to bring to life the artwork of cancer survivor, inventor, and kickboxer Ellen Mayer as a Hope Mural. Mayer’s entry, “Balancing Act,” depicts how cancer allowed her to create a new sense of stability in her life.

Thousands of thumbprints from across nine cities take shape in the form of the Lilly Oncology On Canvas Butterfly, the universal symbol of hope.

Among the participants were the three national winners of the 2014 Lilly Oncology On Canvas competition, including first-place winner, Susan Hope Schaeffer (above), a breast cancer survivor. Schaeffer was recognized for her 2014 entry, “Visions of Hope.” In her narrative, she described her journey as “a personal tsunami.”

A pop-up exhibit of more than 100 Oncology On CanvasSM competition entries lined the walls of Vanderbilt Hall in New York’s Grand Central Terminal.

Visitors take a moment to view the winning entries of the 2014 Lilly Oncology On Canvas Art Competition.

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Tampa, Florida (November 7-8) The Hope Murals Project teamed up with the Moffitt Cancer Center to paint the 10th Hope Mural at the International Plaza and Bay Street Mall in Tampa. Hundreds of shoppers from Canada to Venezuela transformed the pastel artwork of a butterfly created by a person diagnosed with cancer, “ONE on Won.” Although the original artist has passed away, her husband painted the mural in her memory, along with her daughter, son-in-law, and two grandsons. The Hope Mural was installed at the American Cancer Society.

Participants paint the Hope Mural at the International Plaza and Bay Street Mall in Tampa.

A young girl focuses on painting “ONE on Won.”

Hundreds of shoppers came together to bring the pastel artwork to life.

Tampa’s Hope Mural “ONE on Won” is displayed at the American Cancer Society.

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2014 Category Winners

29

Category Winners Oil Monday Best Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Louisiana See page 51

Dawn of a New Day

NY 0116-1B-2014

Best Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New York

LA 0191-3B-2014

See page 37

Acrylic Footsteps to Peace Best Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Missouri Best Entry by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Best of Exhibition– 3rd Prize Winner See page 102

Visions of Hope

PA 0074-1E-2014

Best Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Pennsylvania Best Entry by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Best of Exhibition–1st Prize Winner 30

See page 63

MO 0072-3E-2014

Watercolor Lynn’s Meadow Best Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Minnesota See page 146

Beautiful Courage

WA 0149-1A-2014

Best Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Washington Best of Exhibition – 2nd Prize Winner

MN 0146-3A-2014

See page 125

Pastel With a Little Help From My Friends

Outside Looking In Best Pastel by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Washington

Best Pastel by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Missouri

See page 162

See page 157

MO 0070-1C-2014

WA 0131-3C-2014

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Category Winners Photography

Hope Floats

CT 0143-1D-2014

Jack’s Hands of “Hope”

IL 0183-3D-2014

Best Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Connecticut

Best Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Illinois

See page 171

See page 212

Mixed Media

Inspiration Joy Best Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Minnesota 32

See page 231

MN 0214-1F-2014

OH 0017-3F-2014

Best Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Ohio See page 288

The Entries

33

34

Category Oil

35

36

Award Winner

Dawn of a New Day

Best Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer

Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New York

NY 0116-1B-2014

I have breast cancer! You will notice that I said I have breast cancer, it does not have me! Cancer has not taken anything from me; I feel it has given me my life back! Cancer may be strong, but I am stronger! I am persistent and have a positive attitude! Even if I died, I’d cause such a ruckus up in heaven they’d send me right back! I choose, not cancer, and I chose to live! That is what my painting depicts! Dawn of a new day! A beautiful sunrise coming over the mountains persistent in their own right! The water, life sustaining, flowing freely down below, with new life in the foliage all around. Everything alive with such splendor and beauty, determined and bountiful, just like me!

Oil

37

Reflections in the Mirror Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida During a recent visit with my daughter, I watched her comb her beautiful hair and was reminded of the first time I brushed my hair after hearing the words, “I’m sorry, it is cancer.” I had looked into the mirror and cried, “I am going to lose my hair.” Then I came to the realization that some people, at this very moment, are clinging to their last breath. Then I cried again. “Oh Lord, forgive my vanity,” I prayed, as I gazed at my reflection in the mirror.

38

Oil

FL 0019-1B-2014

Being Caught

IL 0058-1B-2014

Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Illinois I consider myself a young, healthy woman. Never would I imagine to be caught by cancer. And there it began, my pathway wading through a life-threatening disease, my breast cancer. This artwork is my interpretation of the moment of what it was like to begin processing my diagnosis of cancer. Yes, I have been caught by cancer, but not crushed. The golden tree in my painting represents my genome tree, my tree of life. The black bird is the prototype of my cancer. And myself, caged in, vulnerable and scared. The blue background is hope that is out there for me. The roots of the tree will unwind and the puzzle pieces will come together neatly to help me beat cancer. Oil

39

Blood Orange Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Pennsylvania The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me lie down in green pastures. He leadth me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leadth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and staff will comfort me. I am a cancer patient diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma and my outcome is unknown. I have 3 very good friends with cancer whom I pray for.

PA 0063-1B-2014

40

Oil

Cancer Does Not Discriminate Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Puerto Rico When you are diagnosed with cancer, you can be the happiest person, and all of a sudden everything can change. That’s when cancer attacks, not caring about social status, religion, race, color of your skin, or whether you’re a man or woman. From sunny days and beautiful flowers, you’re smiling, you’re happy and all of a sudden… darkness falls. There are rain and storms, doctors, cancer diagnoses and uncontrollable crying. Never lose faith. God, people, family and your oncologists will be by your side. Please check yourself on time. There are all kinds of treatments available. So please, care for yourself and your own! I’m a cancer survivor.

PR 0065-1B-2014

Oil

41

Sunset; Sunrise? Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina Benjamin Franklin kept looking at the image of a sun on the back of the chair in front of him during the deliberations to create the more perfect union. He wondered if it was a sunset or a sunrise. Then he moved from the image on the back of the chair to the rise or fall of a new form of government. I wondered the same thing after getting the news that I had cancer. Was this the end or a beginning? So, this oil painting depicts the dark news about cancer with life rising up or going down. I am happy to say the sun keeps rising as of this, my second year after cancer.

42

Oil

NC 0088-1B-2014

It’s Been 5 Years… Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New Jersey It’s been 5 years since my mom passed away, Which is when my story began. 5 weeks later the cancer was found Through my annual mammo and sonogram I was going to beat this war on cancer By having a bilateral mastectomy. I know from the heavens above My mom was watching over me. The challenges I had to face – 4 surgeries of reconstruction, I see my war wounds daily, I’m not beyond destruction. I wasn’t sure which way to turn, Consumed with sorrow and despair. My husband and 3 boys were there for me With hope, smiles and tender loving care.

NJ 0102-1B-2014

Just finished my hormone therapy, My scars will never disappear. But I’m the lucky one today, Since it has been 5 years.

Oil

43

The Human Evolution Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New Jersey Not only war exists outside Battle is also inside our bodies And is the most harsh for our delicate human spirit: the war on cancer I survived… you also can win Believe and Trust

44

Oil

NJ 0112-1B-2014

Transparent

PR 0119-1B-2014

Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Puerto Rico In July 2013 I was diagnosed with malignant neoplasm breast cancer. I have to step up to the challenge not to reveal my deep Feeling of Fear; the person I have been changed forever with this condition. I started my chemo in October 2013. I met a lot of people in the same position I was in and people who changed my life. I thank my friends and family, especially my daughter who was with me in all my treatments. The physical, mental and emotional scars are always with me, but God is with me everywhere in my life. The light I have is the best part of me right now. You only live once, and this is an opportunity to learn and grow as a new person.

Oil

45

Sinking on Me

FL 0158-1B-2014

Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida I was looking forward to my retirement and being able to enjoy my grandkids, time with my wife and our Yorkie. On my 64th birthday, I was diagnosed with advanced non-small cell lung cancer favoring squamous. I wasn’t surprised, remembering a dream from 2 months before. My mother came to me crying and said: “My dear son, I love you, but you are getting the same illness I had at the same age, please get checked…”

46

Oil

For the last 6 months, I’ve been working with my oncology team and come to understand the seriousness of everything. But I’m prepared to continue living my life like any other person, with dreams, goals and aspirations, because at the end of the day, one day at a time is how we tell time.

Survivors

PA 0243-1B-2014

Oil by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Pennsylvania The chambered nautilus is a survivor, a creature living in the ocean for over 400 million years. I’ve seen photos of this shelled creature, but never knew its story. I discovered that nautilus is a metaphor of my journey, and it has taught me to live in the present with hope as I grow out of the chambers that confine me, but always carrying the past chambers with me as they help me remain afloat. I am catapulted, like the nautilus, into the unknown, a new cycle of profound change, a new beginning. As I meditate on this remarkable creature, I find myself moving forward as I deal with my cancer, which is only one chamber in my life story, one that I will vacate and build on anew.

Oil

47

Stop and Smell the Roses Oil by a Healthcare Professional Nevada When cancer becomes the diagnosis of an individual it is suddenly an eye opener. No longer are meetings, work and TV shows important. It stops you dead in your tracks and time becomes so precious. You now stop and smell the roses and watch a sunset and admire the beauty of the world. When time is limited it gives a whole new outlook on life.

48

Oil

NV 0010-2B-2104

Roots of Cancer

AL 0103-2B-2014

Oil by a Healthcare Professional Alabama Cancer must look like the root of this daffodil I pulled from the dirt beside my parent’s mailbox. Yet the victims of cancer are often joyful and optimistic as they build relationships with our staff, grow closer with friends and family, and anxiously wait to be told when their lives can return to normal. This ugly root produces beautiful flowers – cancer does the same. In our small cancer clinic, nurtured by the unknown of cancer, I see beautiful relationships bloom. I am enriched every day by the family support and victims’ response to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The ugliness of the cancer will fade with time, and the smiles, hugs, laughter and tears shared with each relationship will linger long after the bloom. Oil

49

Duel Within Oil by a Healthcare Professional Texas My translucent spirit Dwells within No shadow does it create It is the essence of My being Binding me to myself, Yet transparent to others, For them I must be strong. I am a mother, wife and friend. I am resilient, fearless and resolved. Yet my translucent spirit Holds my hope It is bound to my creator. The painting is about a woman I encountered once. The story of her cancer journey touched my heart. Myeloma almost engulfed her life. Modern medicine rescued her from near death. Now, she is in remission. But the lingering fear of “when it will be back” is always there. Yet, she doesn’t want to show this to her loved ones. The door represents her new journey; the ribbon symbolized the hope.

TX 0194-2B-2014

50

Oil

Monday Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Louisiana I volunteer at a cancer center on Mondays. When I come in, I often see these 2 boys sitting together as they receive their chemotherapy. It looks like they have been friends forever. However, chances are that their paths would have never crossed had it not been for cancer. What brought these 2 together is not what keeps them together. They play games, watch TV and hang out like they could do anywhere, while all their medical issues fade into the background. It’s as if they have accepted where they are and have chosen to continue to go about the business of being kids. They draw strength from each other. I witness this every Monday.

Award Winner Best Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

LA 0191-3B-2014

Oil

51

Strength in Dragonflies Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada When one of my best friends, Jackie, was diagnosed with breast cancer, I made her a bracelet with dragonflies on it. I had read that dragonflies represent strength. So, we became the dragonfly sisters. Another best friend of mine, Kolene, also was diagnosed with breast cancer. Throughout their treatments we relied on the strength of the dragonfly to help on tough days. Every time I see a dragonfly, I think of my great friends who were outstanding, wonderful ladies!

52

Oil

NV 0001-3B-2014

With Each Journey We Must Endure Darkness in Order to Appreciate the Light

NV 0011-3B-2014

Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada My mother, grandma & aunts have all been diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Our picture represents there is always darkness under light and to look for the light in the bad. Stay in the light.

Oil

53

It’s a Wonderful World Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Alabama I am a five-year breast cancer survivor. I stopped painting, which was my favorite hobby, for several years because of hand tremors. During my bout with cancer, I started painting again. I often have to use two hands to hold the brush. This painting of my daughter reflects a labor of love. It is a wonderful world because she is still in it. About a year ago, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Surgery, chemo and radiation followed. About a week after beginning chemo, she lost her hair. Isn’t she beautiful? She now has hair and is cancer free. It is definitely a wonderful world.

AL 0078-3B-2014

54

Oil

Our Journey Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Florida We’ve faced cancer twice in our 44year marriage. I battled breast cancer and now am cancer free. Now we face my husband’s pancreatic cancer. We struggle daily with hurdles that only those who’ve lived through this can understand. My painting begins at the bottom depicting the days of few positives. Moving upward are hands representing doctors, friends and loved ones who continually support us. Two cancer symbols that touch depict the support we have for each other. I chose the coneflower for its use in herbal remedies and the monarch butterfly as a symbol of transformation. The flowers’ life cycle is reversed and shows tears of despair and death. As the painting forges upward, the flower takes life with days of hope and appreciation for every hour we have.

FL 0101-3B-2014

Oil

55

Presence Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Virginia My inspiration for this piece is my sister. She went for a routine checkup and was diagnosed with the earliest stage of breast cancer. I cried. I had just lost my fiancé to cancer. Thanks to advanced technology with mammography, the abnormality was surgically removed and so far she is cancer free. As I struggled with what cancer looked like for the painting, my sister said something I will not forget. She said, “It is always with you.” Thus, “cancer” sits on her bed even as she rests. Although cancer may always be in my sister’s mind, I want the artwork to portray hope, because medical technology and cancer screening continue to save lives.

VA 0108-3B-2014

56

Oil

Life Goes On Oil by a Family Member, Caregiver or Friend Florida My best friend, a strong woman, an executive, a mother, and an exemplary wife, says the first thing she felt after being diagnosed with breast cancer was panic. She underwent a lumpectomy and more suspicious cells were found in both her breasts. Proving her strength of character, she underwent a double mastectomy. After chemotherapy and 5 years of treatment, the cancer completely disappeared. A year after the operation she had breast reconstruction, which greatly contributed to her emotional recovery. During this difficult time, she had the unconditional love and support of her husband, family and friends. They gave her courage and strength to continue fighting her terrible disease, which she overcame thanks to her faith and desire to continue living. She is a survivor and recipient of my greatest admiration.

FL 0109-3B-2014

Oil

57

The Great Beauty

NE 0136-3B-2014

Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nebraska Pain and beauty split our lives. I can remember moments of each – long moments of grief, absence and darkness, and moments of wonder, color and vitality. But sometimes we forget that pain and beauty can coincide. Anyone who has visited an oncology unit can observe this. In the painting, the woman has received a cancer diagnosis. Yet what she is not aware of is how beauty still follows her. The pain we experience is only part of the picture. The rest of the picture is the beauty the world can still see in us. Circumstances change, but the dignity of a person is not altered by one’s health status. That is something to hold on to. That is the great beauty.

58

Oil

My Dad, Bob the Builder

AL 0144-3B-2014

Oil by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Alabama I received an unexpected phone call at work one day. I heard my Dad choke up and say, “The doctor said I have lung cancer and I have 2 months to live.” I had never heard my dad cry, because mostly he used humor. My Dad was lovingly known as “Bob the Builder” because he could build or design anything. He especially loved unusually shaped buildings and patio furniture. He didn’t make the 2 months the doctor anticipated, but my sister and brother and I spent some special time with him. He seemed to really appreciate time with his children more than ever. I often wonder what he is building in Heaven.

Oil

59

60

Oil

Category Acrylic

61

62

PA 0074-1E-2014

Award Winner

Visions of Hope

Best of Exhibition– 1st Prize Winner

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Pennsylvania

Best Entry by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer

Cancer, a personal tsunami

Best Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer

Focusing on each doctor An outline of treatment Their words gave me hope Husband’s eyes reflecting Love Arms encircled so tightly His love gave me hope

A mother’s view of life Reminds me how far I’ve come Her strength gave me hope

Survivors eager to share their journeys They gave me hope

Daughters’ eyes sought reassurance Their regrets and soulful sobs Their tears gave me hope

“Visions of Hope” enlightened the soul, giving strength to forge through my cancer tsunami.

Peering into a Granddaughter’s eyes, dark pools She is today, tomorrow, the future She gave me hope Acrylic

63

Signs Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Kentucky It was a sunny day in May when I was diagnosed with cancer for the second time. My co-workers had a prayer meeting and asked God to send me a sign whenever I was going through a hard day. The next day I was feeling particularly emotional when I looked up and saw the poster “Keep Calm and Carry On.” Right below was the 1942 “Rosie the Riveter” poster that says, “You Can Do It.” I immediately felt calmness. After that, I started keeping a journal and tracking the signs God was sending my way. This painting reflects the signs and blessings I’ve seen throughout this journey. My prayer is that anyone going through this will see the blessings and signs in their life too. 64

Acrylic

KY 0014-1E-2014

Living & Growing Thru Cancer

ID 0022-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Idaho This still life (acrylic) was painted while I was receiving chemotherapy in 2011. How ironic! That was when it seemed that my life had been put on hold – “still.” Growing plants are significant symbols of new life. Through art, those symbols helped me to also grow, become a survivor, no longer “still.” Thanks to caring Doctors and Nurses! Thanks to loving family and friends! Thanks be to God. Acrylic

65

I Am Alive Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Indiana I am twice a survivor: First of breast cancer and a few years later of urinary bladder cancer, not related to each other. After the diagnosis of cancer, both times, I went through several emotional steps: - surprise - confusion - despair - expectation - hope - recovery Today I am alive. In my painting I am looking with joy at the dawn of a new day and a bright future. LIVE while you are alive.

IN 0024-1E-2014

66

Acrylic

Bottle Gourds

CT 0028-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Connecticut I find it hard to believe I celebrated my 67th birthday this year, as I started my cancer journey at age 32. I have hung on for five occurrences and thrived, my last surgery being September 2013 when my sternum was removed. I say “hung on,” as the bottle gourds I grow and paint hang on to their vines, with all their twists and turns. I have been painting gourds for about eight years. I give the decorated gourds away to friends, family and for local fundraisers. I am told these gourds will be around for 100 years, although I will not be around that long. Maybe someone will look at one of my decorated gourds and remember I hung in there stronger than cancer. Acrylic

67

Rebirth Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina My painting shows the stages in the life cycle of a butterfly, from the egg on the leaf to the beautiful butterfly resting on the flower. This painting illustrates my cancer journey from diagnosis (egg) to the other stages that represent my chemotherapy and radiation treatment. I am now beautiful (reborn) as a whole, well person. I am able to enjoy life and am glad God has cured me. My first cancer was breast cancer in 2001, and my second cancer was colon cancer in 2007.

68

Acrylic

NC 0038-1E-2014

Marks of a Warrior

KY 0042-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Kentucky Sitting in the cancer center waiting room during the past months, I have once again seen the marks of warriors – scars from surgeries and loss of hair. As I looked into the faces of family members, I knew their warrior marks were hidden deep inside. I felt a certain pride in being one of these warriors with my own small marks of battle. Warrior marks tell me that the person who wears them has been forced to live life at a deeper place. My husband and I are in our seventies. He just completed chemotherapy for lymphoma. I live with a rare cancer in my pancreas, spleen and liver. We decided cancer may affect our bodies but it will not take our spirits. We are both warriors! Acrylic

69

The Tree and Me Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Ohio This spring, I decided to go for a walk with the puppy. I noticed a tree. The limbs didn’t grow straight like those in the trees around it. Instead they curved up and down in various directions. This tree, I thought to myself, symbolizes my cancer journey. Six months after I started chemo treatments, and one week after starting radiation therapy, I fell and broke my right humerus. Upon completion of the surgery to repair it, I ended up with a 12-inch plate and many screws. Since the arm was now in a cast, I had to be re-measured and tattooed for radiation. During this time, I had had many ups and downs – like the tree. Now, as I look at that tree, I say, “I am on the up!”

OH 0047-1E-2014

70

Acrylic

Two Worlds

ME 0049-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Maine My artwork depicts my life with cancer. For the past 31 years, and 3 cancers later, I feel like I have been living in 2 worlds. In one, I am whole, hopeful and full of dreams. The beauty of life shines all around me. But the other world, “The Cancer Side,” keeps overshadowing me. It never lets go. It haunts me. It wants to shatter every inch of me, and break my spirit and take me. It’s like a demon in the dark, waiting to pounce. This is me. And this is my Journey.

Acrylic

71

Uplifted Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Tennessee During the past 6 years, stage IV breast cancer has brought loss and sorrow from the depths of darkness. I have received such an outpouring of love and compassion from friends and family giving me inspiration and encouragement. Their continued support for my every need is tremendous, making an almost unbearable situation turn into an experience of healing. It empowers me to face every day with an attitude of gratitude and to continue reaching for the stars. I wanted to create a permanent expression of my gratefulness and pay tribute to everyone, including my doctors, nurses, therapists, and counselors who continue to provide treatment and professional guidance. I persevere with the knowledge that with all this support, my spirit will be eternally uplifted.

TN 0055-1E-2014

72

Acrylic

Angels Watching Over Them

AL 0057-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Alabama When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, my thoughts were, it’s here, you have it, now deal with it in a positive way. The staff at the cancer center helped me to think positive. Each time I was hooked up to my chemo bag, I watched the nurses go around and hook up the other cancer patients to their chemo. My thoughts were that there must be Angels watching over them. Angels were there watching over the nurses as well as their patients. Thank God for such a wonderful staff. Acrylic

73

Caregiver Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Washington He is my rock. He feeds me, makes sure I take my medications on time. He takes me to all my appointments and stays with me. He laughs and cries with me. After two years of lung cancer, which is now in full remission, then double cataracts, which I still have, and then brain cancer, which I am being treated for, I wanted to show you just what a caregiver does and how he has helped me on my long journey home.

WA 0067-1E-2014

74

Acrylic

The Swing Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida The Swing represents my journey, moods, thoughts and prayers while battling colon cancer. When I was first diagnosed, I feared I would not survive and wondered if I would be missing from my children’s lives. The answer emerged from my canvas: Surrounded by enchanted leaves, a guardian angel swings my melancholy daughter and her “Hermie” bear from the willow tree, supporting and protecting her. Willow’s trunk signifies the fight, and with chest thrust out, her strong arms stretch to welcome God’s healing power and embrace a rainbow, His promise of a brighter future. Her robe of leaves waves victorious in the wind, casting away weeping and sadness. Dandelions, a child’s favorite bouquet, rejoice and release a million wishes come true. Like me, they are invincible.

FL 0073-1E-2014

Acrylic

75

Radiumology 226 Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Ohio It started with a sore throat. There was fatigue, weight loss, and a lump. Doctor appointments gave way to tests, a PET scan, biopsies and staging. The diagnosis was a T4N2c++MO squamous cell carcinoma. The treatment consisted of 2 radiation treatments per day, 5 days a week for 7 weeks with two 5-day stays in the hospital undergoing 2 types of chemotherapy. The doctors told me the treatments would be hard for me. I believed in them and told them I could do it. My family told me they loved me. I believed them. I endured the treatments and I recovered from them. I am now a survivor. I am Happy.

76

Acrylic

OH 0080-1E-2014

Express Healing Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Illinois This painting depicts the battle I won against breast cancer. You see the radiation is the cancer coming out, and the hat is absorbing the cancer. I entered this painting competition years ago as a caregiver, then I ended up with breast cancer. This entry is very special and personal for me this time around. I am now cancer free.

IL 0100-1E-2014

Acrylic

77

Women of Teal Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Colorado On July 28, 2008, I was diagnosed with stage IIIC ovarian cancer. I had surgery, 8 standard chemo treatments and 18 months of maintenance therapy. Even though many women respond to chemotherapy, too few live 5 years after treatment. I have been fortunate not to recur; therefore I will use the rest of my life lobbying for funding of research, early diagnosis, molecular profiling and personalized therapy, as ovarian cancer research sharply lags behind research for both prostate and breast cancer. We survivors, STRONG WOMEN IN TEAL, must stand side by side, in front of and behind each other, and work to educate others about this disease; participate in clinical studies that move research forward; and raise money using whatever skills/talents we have.

CO 0110-1E-2014

78

Acrylic

Metamorphosis

TX 0118-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Texas Metamorphosis is a word that describes what happened when I went on a magical process of transformation called Cancer. It slowly transformed my body to a point where it was unrecognizable, and at this moment is when the magic of metamorphosis happens… just like a butterfly from the chrysalis emerging in her unfurling glory and teaching us that change doesn’t have to be traumatic. In moments of fear or pain, I would close my eyes and imagine I was in a cocoon where my body was preparing to turn into this beautiful butterfly full of different hues of color and joy, and that is exactly how I emerged. Change is our only constant in life, but now I see it as a magical process filled with colors.

Acrylic

79

From My Heart to God’s Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina In 2011 I was diagnosed with colon cancer. My journey has been a bittersweet experience. The doctors, nurses, therapist, social worker, financial adviser and appointment clerks were all wonderful – each of them in their areas of expertise made it easier to keep going. I was introduced to art by a caring instructor who taught me to put feelings into my painting. My painting reflects how the diagnoses of cancer broke my heart, stripped me of the happiness I possessed, and left me naked and vulnerable. But as time went on, with the prayers of many, my heart began to heal and peaceful feelings began to descend. Hope was now able to replace despair, faith – unbelief, courage – discouragement and strength – weakness.

NC 0124-1E-2014

80

Acrylic

One of the Same Feather

TX 0125-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Texas I’ve discovered that the cross I carried 6 years ago wasn’t heavy at all. I was a chosen one to experience the closeness to family, friends and especially to God. I understood completely how much I needed them. Recently, something happened. Still on medication for my breast cancer, I feel I’m spiraling out of control, away from everything that’s good for me. I flew away from my flock that exercised and attended nutritional and art classes with me. I am avoiding the very ones who understand me because they are breast cancer survivors. These beautiful ladies, all my friends, my family – especially my husband Bobby, daughter Erika, son-in-law Brad and granddaughters Brooke, Olivia and Paige – are reason enough for me to fly back to my flock. Acrylic

81

In My Mind Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Ohio In this work, I painted an abstract face of a crying woman on which I tried to show the sadness and fear of a person who finds out that she has cancer. Her eyes are closed because all she has time to think about is what to do and how to live with all of that. The bright red color emphasizes the drama of all that happens. I decided to call my work “In My Mind” because for me, knowing that I have cancer means struggling with my thoughts.

82

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OH 0126-1E-2014

The Fighter Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Alabama The sword-wielding, bald-headed fighter will not be defeated. She is in the fight. The fight to survive means more than to beat cancer; it means to survive each moment. Each treatment, each procedure since my cancer was found created more struggles and challenges: new battles to fight. Fighting has a new meaning for me. I understand more about the endurance, strength, patience, will-power and persistence that is required in the cancer fight. Even in the toughest battles, the human spirit is as strong as you want it to be and more powerful than you imagine. In the moments that you think you cannot do something, you can. Fighting is finding light in the dark, joy in the sorrow and happiness in the pain.

AL 0139-1E-2014

Acrylic

83

Peel Away Negative, Enjoy the Positive Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Arizona Surviving prostate and stage 4 lung cancer is life changing. Cancer raises its ugly head many times, but can also be a positive experience. I now prioritize my life knowing the importance of family, friends, support groups and, above all, my spouse, who is my caregiver and best friend. Together we have learned to be positive, never give up, be our own advocate, help others when we can and keep prayer in our hearts. To me, the bananas depict our togetherness, our strength and the feeling that, like the bananas, our life together will ripen with love until the end of time. Like the bananas, we have been able to peel back the bad stuff and have learned to “be here now” and enjoy each minute that we have together.

84

Acrylic

AZ 0150-1E-2014

I Conquered! Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer California Cancer doesn’t care who you are; I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009. It was my battle now. I fought it with love, strength and support from my family, friends and God! He had given me a second chance! I had conquered cancer! If I can conquer that, I can conquer ANYTHING! I was a renewed person – more powerful and fearless. I was once afraid of heights, but now something inside gave me the zeal to go skydiving. This painting reflects my experience in the sky. I was flying free from the chains of pain and darkness. I found peace and tranquility. The wind blew in my face as if washing away all that I had suffered. A spiritual and emotional victory! I conquered!

CA 0156-1E-2014

Acrylic

85

Soaring Hope

IN 0160-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Indiana After I was diagnosed with cancer, I joined an art therapy program for cancer patients, and I’ve enjoyed attending class because I feel so comfortable, safe and warm amid the camaraderie that I developed with other cancer patients. We share our sadness, despair, information, encouragement, help, hope, joy and so much more.

86

Acrylic

I had always been interested in art but never taken any art classes or painted on a canvas. I benefitted not only from joining the art studio, but also from the changes in perspective about my life that painting provided. I had an idea to sketch and paint a ribbon with different colors to represent all cancers. I added hearts because I’ve felt lots of love and support through my journey.

[The World] A Little Different Through My Eyes Now

IL 0168-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Illinois What? Did she just tell me I have breast cancer? Me? cancer? How do you process that? I can’t. Surgeries, recovery and chemo. This stuff is strong enough to make my hair fall out, yet it’s going to help me… “You gotta do what you gotta do.” I’ve gotta do this.

“Fight like a girl!” I love that, that’s Me! The cancer is in my past, but I will never be free of it. The World is a little different through my eyes now. I never capitalize cancer; I never want to give it that much power. Acrylic

87

2010 — The Darkest Point in My Life Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Iowa March – Husband lost job with insurance. May – Husband took another, offering none. June – 27-year-old nephew killed himself. July – 35-year-old son died trying to save a friend. “This can’t be happening! I’ll wake up soon!” August – I’m on leave from work due to compression fracture. “God, don’t do this, work is all I have to escape my loss!” And every day I prayed, “Lord, strike me dead; I miss him so much the pain is unbearable!” September – Broken neck… surgery… CANCER! 13 months?? “Lord… I think I don’t want to die.” No insurance! “I CAN’T TAKE THIS!!!” But God had other plans and sent a warrior to fight the demons that threatened to destroy me.

IA 0171-1E-2014

88

Acrylic

Still Hoping for Eureka! Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Pennsylvania I am now a 10-year survivor of breast cancer, but I am so much more. I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, child of God, woman of faith and symbol of hope. In that time, the world has changed to become a darker place. I have changed too. More friends and family have been diagnosed with cancer; some have died, some have survived. My faith sustains my hope. I have learned that hope sits quietly there in the darkness waiting to be found and used, like a cure for cancer waits to illuminate the world and cry, “Eureka!”

PA 0181-1E-2014

Acrylic

89

Life’s Pungent Revelry Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida “Is this what it feels like to be 29?” Struggling to keep up the feverish pace of a full-time job and school? Fatigue hung on me until I had no choice but to listen. Life’s pungent prick awakened me to an altered course, plotted on my body, and a new resolve. A family will not be lost in this wake. Twenty years pass and once again life finds me in need. Prickling me to open my eyes and reset my course, diverting my attention from the pungent reflection pond, and making my heart move on. A second chance to see clearer, listen longer and sing stronger. With each stroke of my paddle I can create calm and find balance. I revel in this pungent life!

FL 0187-1E-2014

90

Acrylic

My Sentinels

NM 0217-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New Mexico I’m a practicing artist and for as long as I can remember, I’ve been attracted to trees. To me, they symbolize strength and stability in their unique lines and in how they can look different depending on the time of day or the time of year. For my cancer journey, they now symbolize the “sentinels” of support that I’ve had around me. My daughters, who have taken care of me because they love me. The doctors and nurses, who have taken care of me because it’s their job, yet I never felt like I was only their “duty.” Every one of them took time and energy that I never expected, and for all of them, I will be forever grateful.

Acrylic

91

Fragile Reflections Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Arizona Slow as a snail, I would inch my walker to our patio pond following my ovarian cancer surgery. I would gaze as the sun skimmed across the water’s surface to caress the lily buds. They slowly opened at just the right speed for me to watch while I collected healing rays of sunshine. My mind wandered to “quality of life” thoughts and to wondering, how long I would live? It is just one year now, since the surgery, and I have new energy and strength from the weekly chemotherapy. I am fertilizing the lilies for luscious summer blooms as I look forward to my brighter future. Nourished by my skilled doctors and loving husband, my life has been lengthened. Will I have another season? Life is such a fragile reflection. For now, it is a joy to be alive and paint the lilies.

AZ 0218-1E-2014

92

Acrylic

Blood and Tears Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Wisconsin The blood, the tears come rushing from my body. Every drop taking with it a part of me I’ll never get back. These pieces of me that hold pain, emotion, part of my soul. The tears wiped away on a tissue, tossed aside. The blood pushed from my being with so much pain and confusion. Gone for that mere moment, but my body continues to replenish them. Like an ever-flowing waterfall, you are begging for a drought. It becomes more intense as time goes on. The blood a darker shade of red. Tears are filling my eyes so much that I can’t see through them. Just let them stop, let it all stop.

WI 0221-1E-2014

Acrylic

93

New Normal Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Missouri Like a tsunami strikes land, cancer strikes the body, mind and soul. As a lifelong nonsmoker, the news of throat cancer in 2012 was shocking. Following surgery, and from the beginning of treatment, I was told I would be living a “new normal.” I immediately grasped the words, “would be living.” All of my life I have been an outdoorsman, and I have many survival skills, so I put them to work. Although changed forever and left with challenges and scars, my journey continues. It’s challenged my perceptions, my spirituality and my appreciation for life, and it has inspired me to be free of self-inflicted barriers. This freedom allows me to create without restriction, totally open to risk, and happily living the “NEW NORMAL.”

MO 0229-1E-2014

94

Acrylic

North Carolina—My Home

NC 0241-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina My first thoughts about this painting combined North Carolina and cancer. I’ve lived in and loved North Carolina all my life. I realized the abbreviation for my state, NC, is in the middle of the word caNCer. I got cancer in NC, but cancer did not take away my love for this great state. Cancer has made me stronger and more appreciative of all the wonderful things in NC and my life.

Acrylic

95

Hope & Promise Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida Gazing out at the ocean, with eyes that you cannot see, she is searching for peace, hope and promise. Amidst the stormy sky is a rainbow, signifying that there is truly light and hope in the storm called “cancer.” The dock is symbolic of the only path that she can take in her life. The color yellow is used to signify joy and happiness, and is swirling in the wind as nature is attempting to blow her joy and happiness away. Her dress is translucent because during the treatment of our cancer we become very vulnerable – baring our soul, our body, to everyone.

96

Acrylic

FL 0246-1E-2014

Turtle

HI 0259-1E-2014

Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Hawaii My turtle art has to be looked at from at least 10 feet away. Just like me. From far away it may look O.K. But with closer inspection, you can see it has a lot of flaws.

Acrylic

97

Solitary Paradise Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Hawaii To survive a recalcitrant cancer is to know loneliness. There are so few like me, a 4-year survivor. I found a wonderful companion on this shared journey, but our time together was cut short by stubborn resistance. That joyful, vibrant, creative friend is gone forever; her family is awash in tears, wondering why I remain. The friend who once painted by my side has become my muse. And I create, in my solitary paradise called survivorship, capturing the beauty around me while I wait for another companion. (Although this story depicts actual events, it also describes my advocacy work as a survivor: supporting patients, educating providers and working with the public to create awareness of the #1 cancer killer, lung cancer.)

HI 0260-1E-2014

98

Acrylic

The Heart of Hope

CA 0093-2E-2014

Acrylic by a Healthcare Professional California She was nervous and frightened on her first day of treatment. I saw her courage and determination grow along the way. Her treatment is not even finished, yet she’s already helping someone else who is scared and broken and just at the beginning of the fight. I see how she gives love and hope to those around her. She is full of light and laughter. I’ve seen this many times in the 7 years that I’ve been working with oncology patients. I’ve learned so much about hope from my patients. My heart is touched by these extraordinary people. Acrylic

99

Take My Hand Acrylic by a Healthcare Professional North Carolina I am a massage and bodywork therapist, providing extremely gentle touch and energy work, with loving presence, for inpatients at a North Carolina cancer hospital. The bodywork helps to alleviate pain, nausea and anxiety, and it enhances quality of life. Sometimes while I am gently stroking a patient’s neck and shoulder with one hand, we may hold onto each other with the other hand. We cry, we transition, we transform and we Let Go. This abstract is layered with molding paste to create an unsteady surface. In the lower-right corner is a “radiated” crab/cancer. A tiny blue jay appears toward the upper middle of the piece, representing no fear, a tremendous ability of survival and adaptability. In the middle is a profile of a Shaman to represent healing.

NC 0095-2E-2014

100

Acrylic

Deep Roots Acrylic by a Healthcare Professional Pennsylvania “Deep Roots” depicts my journey as an oncology nurse. The tree of life has grown angel wings, representing the angels I have cared for and left after their brave fight. The broken heart represents the pain patients experience during their cancer journey, along with the pain I carry in my heart as their nurse. The “8” in the middle of the tree represents my unit, where I have grown and found my passion for oncology patients and families; where I have found my strength to help others; where I have become the nurse that I would want caring for my loved ones. Most importantly, it is where I have had the opportunity to get to know and care for the most amazing people on this earth.

PA 0107-2E-2014

Acrylic

101

Footsteps to Peace Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Missouri This painting is a tribute to someone who I cared about very deeply. It represents her cheerful spirit, which lives on. The footprints represent the struggle she endured throughout her journey to a better place where no pain or sickness can touch her. She fought this disease gallantly for many years. In the end, she may have lost the fight physically, but she did not lose her strength or courage. She was small in stature, but not in spirit. She saved me in my time of need and is, therefore, my angel who continues to watch over me.

Award Winner Best of Exhibition– 3rd Prize Winner Best Entry by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Best Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

MO 0072-3E-2014

102

Acrylic

To the Journey for Better or Worse

NV 0002-3E-2014

Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada To the journey hand in hand we start, for better or for worse. Always together never torn apart love always comes first. My dearest friends now flying free the pain and suffering gone. While you still stand here next to me we still will travel on. To the journey of the unknown way On forward no reverse Forever in my heart you’ll stay For better or for worse. Acrylic

103

Wings of an Angel Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada My dad died of lung cancer about seven years ago. I’m doing this painting because it symbolizes how he’s been my guardian angel since the day he passed away. He was a big part of my life & watching him take his last breath took so much away. But knowing he’s up above taking care of me and my family puts my heart into peace.

104

Acrylic

NV 0004-3E-2014

Free Fall Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver North Carolina When my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer, there was an enormous amount of sorrow, apprehension and uncertainty. Our world had turned into a free fall. We had no control whatsoever. It was very difficult knowing that she was hurting and not being able to help make things better. Everything got turned around and the future was uncertain. We did not know where we would land. We were in a free fall that we could not control. We tried to be strong for each other, but some days were very gray and cloudy. We fought the battle together and now my wife is a 2½year survivor. Being on the other side, we celebrate life and are very happy for our future. I’m grateful today and enjoy our blessings. It’s important to have gratitude and bask in the goodness of life.

NC 0031-3E-2014

Acrylic

105

Heart Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Maryland Cancer knows no boundaries Cancer affects us all Cancer crosses borders Oceans do not deter The pain and suffering It has wrought us all The heart of the caregiver, friend The heart of the professional and family The heart knows no boundaries The love and caring Crosses oceans Lights the dark of night Stars twinkling in the sky Bringing joy and hope That cancer will never deter 2013 was a daunting year for me. Two nurse friends were diagnosed with cancer. During my visits with them, they never ceased to amaze me with their sense of humor, fighting spirit and love. The heart in my painting symbolizes their bright light and unconditional love that shone gloriously within.

MD 0060-3E-2014

106

Acrylic

Chemo Attack Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Texas My wife was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer last June. We did not know what to expect. Things happened very quickly with her having a number of tests. We learned more about cancer than we ever wanted to know. When she was diagnosed she was in good physical shape. She still walks 3 to 4 miles 3 days a week. She has maintained a positive attitude and always has a smile and a great sense of humor. She is still undergoing weekly treatments. She has overcome problems such as the neuropathy in her hands and feet. The staff at the chemo center has been helpful, informative and compassionate. My painting represents the chemo attacking the cancer tumors and flowers of hope.

TX 0082-3E-2014

Acrylic

107

Fight with JCB Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Illinois I have watched 2 very influential people in my life battle cancer. My aunt battled breast cancer (pink) and my best friend battled synovial sarcoma (yellow). While their journeys were different in nature, both women fought the same way. They both fought with joy, courage and beauty. Their journeys had different outcomes but like the circles in my painting, their journeys are never ending. My aunt beat her battle (yay!) but she still has her struggles. My best friend passed away in 2010, but there’s not a day that I don’t feel her presence. Watching them both battle taught me a lot of things. But most importantly, they taught me how to fight through life, and I will fight the same way they did.

108

Acrylic

IL 0111-3E-2014

Fighting My Own Battle Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Arizona Serving over 21 years as a United States Marine, my husband Jesús wasn’t prepared for medical news on 11-2-2011. He served a tour in Iraq to liberate Kuwait from Saddam Hussein in 2003, spent 6 months out at sea and retired in 2005. An endoscopy revealed a devastating diagnosis. The doctor informed us that he had colon cancer. He had surgery to remove stage 2B cancer; he began chemo quickly. It was difficult to maintain good white blood cell levels. After 4 months of chemotherapy, he was in remission. After appointments and blood work being such a battle, it makes serving the United States Marine Corps seem like a cakewalk.

AZ 0132-3E-2014

Acrylic

109

Just Keep Swimming Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver New York As the holidays started upon us, and the food was flowing freely, weight had been gained by all. My wife noticed her weight gain was too quick for a short amount of time and went to see her doctor. We were all shocked to hear, “You have uterine cancer.” The scary part is, just 6 months earlier my wife was at the doctor and everything was fine. The disease masked itself as normal menopausal symptoms. This Journey would last 22 months, with my wife finding comfort in her turtles and spending quality time with each other, our children and our grandchildren. She is greatly missed by all. In memory of my wife, each of us kept a turtle to raise.

110

Acrylic

NY 0152-3E-2014

Where Flowers BLOOM… So Does HOPE Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver South Dakota My hope behind my painting was to share my mother-in-law’s journey of fighting brain cancer as well as the journey of other people who continue to fight the same battle. My process began with walking around the hospital and asking the patients and their friends and families to paint a color, texture or form of any sort that displayed their journey through cancer. When I asked about the texture or color chosen by these people, they used words such as strength, hope, love, struggle and faith. I finished the painting by adding the definitions of brain and cancer, because that was how outsiders perceived the diagnoses, and adding the image painted in the middle for how people with brain cancer and their families perceived the diagnoses.

SD 0163-3E-2014

Acrylic

111

Not Invisible, Not Alone Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Arkansas My mother’s journey with cancer started in 1994, with a mastectomy. Then, later, invasive lung surgery. Chemo – with both. In the last 3 years she’s had lung cancer again. They used a new method of freezing it, and it went fine. Then she had cancer on her nose, which was removed. Now she has breast cancer in lymph nodes in her neck. She knows she’s not strong enough for chemo – so she’s taking injections once a month. Then a PET scan every 3, to see if it’s working. So far everything’s good. We have an appointment with the doctor tomorrow. Hopefully still fine.

112

Acrylic

AR 0178-3E-2014

I See You

LA 0190-3E-2014

Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Louisiana “I want to look like you. I want to look normal and come in with a smile on my face.” – Cancer Patient I was stunned when the old woman receiving chemo told me those words. I was unable to give a meaningful response at the time, but this is my response to her now, as well as to all cancer patients: I see you. Not for your sickness or disabilities. I see a beautiful soul with an individual personality unlike any other. Nothing can hinder you as a person. Not even a disease. Don’t let cancer stop you from living life and keeping a positive attitude. Because I see that you are greater and more powerful than that. Acrylic

113

Even Through the Blue Times… Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Washington Keeping a positive heart makes ALL the difference, especially through the blue times that come with fighting ANY disease. Since my earliest memories CANCER has touched my world. At 11 years old my grandfather became my angel. When I was 25 — and 9 months pregnant with my daughter — my father BEGAN his fight. Today, almost 20 years later, he is a SURVIVOR living near the water and still playing golf at 78. When I was 35, my mother fought breast cancer and WON! TODAY, although uncertain what the future may hold, WE WILL NEVER GIVE UP THE FIGHT!

WA 0197-3F-2014

114

Acrylic

The Last Fall

FL 0198-3E-2014

Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Florida We began October of 2008 with our mom being diagnosed with a stage IV glioblastoma brain tumor. Surgery for nearly 7 hours gave mom time to enjoy life, even though doctors said it would be short. Mom’s last wish was to go home to Illinois and see her mom, brothers and sister one last time. Nothing compares to the fall season in October. The air was so crisp and cool, and the leaves so colorful. Mom smiled so happily and enjoyed every moment. She tossed leaves with her granddaughter and tucked some away for a keepsake. Fall passed quickly into winter. Mom passed away January 15, 2009, at 54 years old, just after her granddaughter’s 12th birthday.

Acrylic

115

Our Dying Family Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Hawaii This painting is symbolic of how my family is grieving after our sweet son died. Cancer has taken away my baby boy and torn our family from within. Although we try to live as best we can, I am also waiting for the day I can go be with my sweet boy again. I’m living in our son’s light until we see him again. We love and miss you more than all the stars in the universe, more than all the grains of sand in all the beaches of the world. To the moon and back times infinity. We will see you again someday, somewhere over that rainbow. We will meet you there!

116

Acrylic

HI 0202-3E-2014

The Journey

HI 0205-3E-2014

Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Hawaii It starts with the news, in a dark place. The journey changes directions and elevation. There are ups and downs as you travel the journey over the hills. You cannot see the end, but it’s closer than it was before. The flower represents beauty and growth from a difficult and dark place. The journey is long, but the landscape is pretty. Even in hard times there are good things. Always.

Acrylic

117

Anchors in the Storm Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Indiana When asked how many children I have, I say, “Two, one in Newburgh and one in Heaven.” We lost Kendra after an 8-year battle with breast cancer. She taught me to live life to its fullest. So, when my yearly exam showed a lump in my left breast, I wasn’t afraid. I had my own angel watching over me. Thank God, the lump was benign. Our daughter had “hope” that a cure would be found, “faith” that God would hold her hand through the raging storm and “love” for family that made her strong and courageous. We all “prayed” for God’s grace to see us through. Our “anchors” were Faith, Hope, Prayer and Love. They are still my “anchors” as I minister to friends fighting this awful disease. 118

Acrylic

IN 0235-3E-2014

MI 0244-3E-2014

Memories Are Sweet Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Michigan My thoughts sweep back to long ago, three girls, silly and young, spent their days in a school in the woods, beneath the Michigan sun.

One day was cold, but seemed so warm, to us Michigander chicks, the top was down, the volume was up, did we all end up sick… ?

With giggles, smiles and singing galore, You could hear us miles ‘round. With Jane and Peppers to join with us, no one else could hear a sound.

Memories are sweet, close to my heart, for now you will never know, it wasn’t just fun we had back then – we helped each other grow.

Acrylic

119

Jesus Is with Me Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver South Carolina I drew this picture about Jesus because he’s always with me, and now my Grandma and Miss Rachael are with Jesus. It was very hard to lose my Grandma and Miss Rachael to cancer. Miss Rachael was a good friend of my mama’s, and she’d babysit me and my sister. She’d been fighting cancer since she was a kid. We played dress-up, and she could wear our clothes because she was so small from all the treatments. My Grandma had cancer for a long time, but she still liked to have fun with us. She couldn’t run and play, so we’d use her art supplies to draw. Jesus and my friends have helped me through this hard time, and this painting reminds me of Grandma and Miss Rachael.

120

Acrylic

SC 0254-3E-2014

Silver Lining Clouds

HI 0261-3E-2014

Acrylic by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Hawaii The calmness of evening time is when the beautiful silver lining clouds appear. Slight, turbulent movements in the ocean waves is the long journey of treatment. From beginning to end are Hope, Love, Support and Prayers from family and friends.

Acrylic

121

122

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Category Watercolor

123

124

WA 0149-1A-2014

Award Winner

Beautiful Courage

Best of Exhibition– 2nd Prize Winner

Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Washington

Best Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer

Cancer redefines everything. It changes how you spend your time, the definition of a “good day,” what you say to your loved ones and what tomorrow really means. It shifts priorities, challenges livelihoods and accentuates relationships. Cancer redefines the meaning of things. Things like hope, beauty and courage. This painting speaks to what the word courage means to me now that I have gone through cancer and survived. To me, courage need not be loud, prideful or brash. Courage can be quiet resolve, silent determination and resilience of spirit. Courage can be both fragile and strong. Courage doesn’t cower, but keeps striving for the light, and in doing so, radiates its own. Courage allows hope. Hope begets life. Life carries on. Watercolor

125

Getting Back in the Water Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New Jersey As I dipped my toe in the water for the first time since my diagnosis of multiple myeloma, I noticed all the ripples. Each ripple reminded me of all the treatments, doctors, nurses, family and friends who have surrounded me and helped me get to this day. Since July 2010, I have been through many rounds of chemotherapy, two autologous stem cell transplants, two back surgeries and a few broken ribs. I am happy to say I am in remission. I believe each day is a gift, so I unwrap it and enjoy. Swimming and painting are therapeutic for me, but the love of my family and friends inspires me, keeps me positive, moves me forward.

NJ 0018-1A-2014

126

Watercolor

Reflection on Radiation No. 23 Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Virginia My journey started with a breast cancer diagnosis. I had a mastectomy, eighteen lymph nodes removed, four malignant. Infection and necrosis required a second surgery. I was depressed, buoyed only by my children, my church and my friends. Eighteen weeks of chemo brought clots, tremors, joint pain, pneumonitis, fatigue, two hospitalizations. Six weeks of radiation included thirddegree burns. In this portrait I wanted to paint the raw and naked image I saw in the mirror and capture my spiritual and mental reflections. I saw myself as scarred but not scared, not eclipsed by the darkness. I was pensive about all that had occurred. I smiled, confident that the worst was over. I hope other patients can relate to my portrait and know I understand.

VA 0020-1A-2014

Watercolor

127

Flowers Through the Fog Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Arkansas I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001. In 2011, it came back in my lung and bones, and after more chemo I am learning to live with cancer. My Journey is reflected in my painting. Whether you’re a bud or a flower in full bloom, going through the fog of cancer treatment is part of the Journey. As each flower has its own place and time to bloom, so each of us has our own road in the Journey through the Fog. Because of the Fog, I see the World in the Light. I am thankful for all the people who have helped me in this Journey, whether they helped with my medical treatment, were my support group, or were the person who smiled at my bald head.

AR 0040-1A-2014

128

Watercolor

Hope

MA 0041-1A-2014

Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Massachusetts I am a 10-year breast cancer survivor. I went through chemotherapy and radiation treatment. I continued to work throughout the treatments. I always had a positive attitude about my cancer and was feeling great that I beat the breast cancer. Two years ago, I was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and am currently undergoing chemotherapy again. I retired from my work to enjoy my life completely. I still have a positive attitude and do not let it get me down. I keep active and busy. The “Hope” painting makes me smile. I love the blue and yellow colors together. It reminds me of spring and that means new life and hope. Always have hope!

Watercolor

129

Linda… Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Ohio There was a lady that I met at an art therapy class. She was a common, ordinary, down-to-earth person who left an impression on me. Her favorite color was yellow. So I pictured her as a dandelion. Not an exotic flower – but a simple soul who grew on this earth a short while and was gone.

130

Watercolor

OH 0051-1A-2014

Stepping Stones to Life

NC 0059-1A-2014

Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina 2008: my first cancer was “baby-cancer.” My surgeon said he had good news and bad news, what did I want to hear first? The bad news was it was cancer, and the good news was it was a “little cancer.” To me, cancer is cancer and frightening. I underwent 5 days, twice a day, of x-ray/CT and radiation, mammosite treatment. The bright, colorful flowers in my painting are reminders of my “Dream Come True,” a week spent in Hawaii in 2012. In 2013, my second cancer charged in full steam. This time I had lesions and a tumor. To date I have had chemo, a mastectomy and radiation. Life moves onward to memories yet to be made, as displayed in the wildlife silhouette.

Watercolor

131

Dewdrop on Spring Pathway Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New York At this moment I have become a giant dewdrop formed on a pathway rolling into an early morning Garden of Eden. The tentacles of the new spring growth encircle me and gently stroke my senses into overdrive. The scent of new growth and new beginnings is overwhelming. The bitter taste of anxiety about the future has no place here; instead, the luxuriant colors and textures of the garden walk begin to dominate my senses. In the background a brook gurgles soothing rhythms, punctuated by birds calling to each other in distant trees. It was cancer that stopped the mindless busyness of my existence and gave me this time to become enveloped in the beauty of this instant.

NY 0064-1A-2014

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Watercolor

Contemplating Immortality Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New Hampshire It struck me how one minute, immortality seemed steadfast, but in the next, how vulnerable and uncertain my circle of life had become. After my initial introduction to breast cancer, I shifted gears and began to rely on my inner strength to move through this shadow of darkness to address my life-altering transformation with grace and fortitude. I did not think of cancer as a permanent setback or a death sentence. Losing my hair was not something I saw as shameful or unattractive. Cancer was a transformation that I accepted and moved on from. Although cancer is still a speed bump in my journey through life, I am forever grateful for the bright sunny days that continue to surround me. Immortality seems steadfast once again!

NH 0083-1A-2014

Watercolor

133

FL 0084-1A-2014

The Cancer Dome Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida I’m living in a cancer dome, It’s the place I now call home. People see me, touch me, feel me, They try but they can’t heal me.

There are others, each in a dome, It doesn’t matter, I still feel alone. I worry I’ll run out of air, Why is life so unfair?

On arrival I could barely see, It seemed dark and so lonely. Soon I found my way around, My new home in Cancer Town.

So I got some plants and flowers, Let the sun in, wrote for hours. Painting and doing what I love, ’Neath a bright rainbow above.

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Watercolor

Life is largely about perceptions, Don’t dwell on lousy projections. Banish the gloom and doom, Nurture yourself, you will bloom.

Uphill Battle Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Arizona My diagnosis of stage 4 lung cancer was a total shock. I was in a fog of fear and confusion. Ultimately, I alone must summon the strength to take on this uphill battle to survive. Comparable to climbing mountains, fighting cancer requires endurance and determination to continue upward, scaling unknown terrain. Just when I reach a plateau and life gets a bit easier the cancer mutates, causing more fog and confusion. As doctors determine the next best treatment, there is another mountain to traverse with more cracks, crevices and boulders than the last. Each peak seems farther away. Drawing on an inner strength I never imagined I possessed, I continue climbing, praying and scaling new heights.

AZ 0087-1A-2014

Watercolor

135

Roll with the Punches Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New Jersey Life has always been a struggle for me. Things seemed to be getting better until the day I was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. I was doing O.K.; I had an army of doctors in my corner and was left to believe I was “cured.” A few months later, I received a call from my oncologist. My cancer had metastasized to my liver. A stage 4 patient, I was angry and scared of dying, but found hope in the hands of my surgeon. I cannot say that she has saved my life, but I can say she blessed me with more time. With all of this I’ve learned to “roll with the punches,” to take nothing for granted and find hope even when hope is lost.

NJ 0094-1A-2014

136

Watercolor

OK 0142-1A-2014

Sunrise Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Oklahoma The sun rises. Life is good. My world is a beautiful place. I paint “Live, Laugh, Love” on a wall. An annual visit to the doctor. A lump is felt. Mammogram. Ultrasound. Biopsy. MRI. Cancer. Life changes. Mastectomy.

Chemotherapy. Nausea. Thinning hair. Blood clot. Lack of energy. Shaved head. Wigs. Scarves. No hair. No energy. Too tired to care. Chemotherapy ends…

CELEBRATION! Setback… Intensive Care. No white blood cells. Abscess. Blood transfusions. Surgery – again. Amazing support – Husband, family, friends, doctors, Nursing staff. HOME! Energy returning.

Hair, too! No more wigs. No more scarves. I am who I am. I look at my wall. I live, laugh and love. My world is a beautiful place. Life is good. The sun rises.

Watercolor

137

Warrior Doctor Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Connecticut Remove the cancer from my breast. I hope it will not spread. I will do my part to heal and appreciate Each day and how I feel. Warrior Doctor, it’s good to be alive and well; Save me from the cancer cells.

CT 0155-1A-2014

138

Watercolor

Hand in Hand Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Minnesota When I learned that breast cancer had returned, I knew that a mastectomy would be suggested. What I didn’t realize at the time was a whole team of people would be helping me through the process. When the surgery was over, I thought my contact with my healthcare team was over, but learned that a new member would help me choose bras and a prosthesis. She would hold my hand through the process and ensure I was doing well. While painting these siblings holding hands for guidance and safety, I realized how much I relied on my cancer team as I would rely on my siblings, knowing that they would take my hand and make sure I was doing well.

MN 0179-1A-2014

Watercolor

139

“Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow” Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Ohio The journey, as people referred to it, was enlightening. I have gone through fear, 3 surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation. I found that I kept coming back to 7 simple words that mean everything: “Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow,” our doxology. It’s my favorite saying now, as I complete treatment. I feel blessed to have held faith and a positive attitude in my heart; to have had the wonderful help of a few close friends, family and great medical staff; and finally, to have the blessing of moving on with life.

140

Watercolor

OH 0195-1A-2014

I’m Not Okay Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Washington I’m not sure how to begin my story because it isn’t over. I was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer in May 2013 and have completed chemo, radiation and a bi-lateral mastectomy. My treatment has been physically successful. Mentally, the story is different. I have a habit of saying “good” when asked how I’m doing, and I’ve come to realize it makes me feel like a fraud. I’m not okay – not even close. Doctors inadvertently discovered a mass on my kidney. I’m scared. Cancer is a horrible, horrible disease and no one is okay who has ever had it. Cancer never goes away – it’s always in the back of your mind. We can be strong and endure. We can survive. But I am never going to be truly “good” ever again.

WA 0196-1A-2014

Watercolor

141

Life Quake Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida Suddenly it feels like my life is sinking into a dark abyss. I was navigating life’s journey one day, the next day, I had a life quake. I was told I have metastatic stage IV breast cancer. Chemo, more chemo. Will I make it through this? I feel like a water lily having to push through muck and mud, fighting to see the light of day. The red vein in my picture represents the life quake tearing through my life. The dark spots in the vein are the chemo coursing through my body. The 3 pods above the lily are seeds of hope.

142

Watercolor

FL 0200-1A-2014

Sheltered in Love Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Texas April, 2001… Life is good. A trip to Italy in June. All is well. May, 2001… Breast cancer. “Anomaly – very small tumor, very aggressive; in 11/13 lymph nodes.” 50% recurrence odds – at best. My life comes to a screeching halt. God’s response: “Will this really change what is most dear to you?” July, 2014… I sit with hummingbirds in the present moment: “Taste and see that God is good.” The cancer has not recurred. Remission? Probably newer postcancer drugs. Sheltered by the weathered tree of the loved ones who have journeyed with me, I sit by the stream of life, pondering the mystery, the gift of 13 years in remission, celebrating milestones, even a jubilee – events that once seemed part of a future I would never have.

TX 0227-1A-2014

Watercolor

143

The Light Hidden Within Watercolor by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Minnesota A cancer diagnosis allows you to look at your life and to visualize the life you want to live… To see what’s working, what’s not… What’s important, what’s not… These visions became my hopes – hopes of light for my life going forward. I realize now, I had lost myself, my voice and my sight of who I was. I had abandoned myself. After cancer, I found something central to my being, some light hidden within me that gave me strength. Strength to live, to fight for my life, to find my voice. I saw that life that I most wanted to live and realized it was achievable. Nothing worth living for is easy, but this cancer journey has been worthwhile, eye opening and amazingly life changing.

144

Watercolor

MN 0249-1A-2014

The Art of Healing

CT 0147-2A-2014

Watercolor by a Healthcare Professional Connecticut Nursing is an art that involves observing, listening and reacting with thoughtful kindness. Our infusion room is full of hope and smiles. The tone is set with warm understanding and acceptance. Our goal is to enhance a patient’s journey through cancer with love, warmth and laughter. Life is a puzzle and at times it can be difficult to see how all the pieces fit together. The puzzle comes together when people help each other and are compassionate. It is important to be aware of the beauty that lies within each person. In caring for our patients, we hope to provide stability and enable them to be grounded during their journey.

Watercolor

145

Lynn’s Meadow Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Minnesota My cancer journeys can best be described as feeling helpless: Wishing I could do more for family and friends. I painted a meadow with the sun rising, or is it setting? There is no right or wrong. It’s how you feel when you think of your cancer journey.

Award Winner Best Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

MN 0146-3A-2014

146

Watercolor

Dark to Light

NV 0006-3A-2014

Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada My piece represents periwinkle, the color for esophageal cancer, which a family member battled last year. The background represents darkness into light, which is where his journey took him.

Watercolor

147

Moments of Hope in a Turbulent Sea Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver South Dakota I have never experienced anything as wondrous as being an artist-in-residence volunteer at a cancer infusion center. Patients who have said that they felt like they were drowning underwater with anxiety, distress and fear have told me that they have found surprising moments of rest, tranquility and enjoyment when we begin our projects together. I am amazed at how our immersion in art has sometimes actually helped ease the side effects of certain infusions. Most important, a bond grows between each of us as we share art together. That feeling of closeness never leaves me. For me, the real joy comes in giving this gift of art. Where else can an artist be so rewarded?

148

Watercolor

SD 0025-3A-2014

Fresh Eyes Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Kentucky It has been a long arduous journey, but she’s reached her destination. She embodies true mindfulness, true gratitude, and sees the world with fresh eyes.

KY 0048-3A-2014

Watercolor

149

Infinite Resolve Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Michigan It is what sets us apart from lower animals. Faced with the adversity of a stunning diagnosis, the challenge of a debilitating therapeutic regimen or the often slow pace of recovery, we are blessed with the capacity to marshal immense spiritual and emotional energy to guide us through difficult times. The cancer patient’s resolve is the extraordinary weapon called upon to navigate the many and various obstacles the disease presents.

MI 0075-3A-2014

150

Watercolor

Wildflowers Don’t Care Where They Grow Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver North Carolina As a child I was constantly bringing my mother wildflowers. Every day on the way back from school, I would stop and pick flowers for my mother. No matter how many you picked, they would always return. My mother was diagnosed with lymphoma. We went through chemotherapy with flying colors. Then, 10 years later, it returned and another bout with chemotherapy began. She overcame this also. Now there is a possibility of bone cancer. We are not very worried. After all, she came back from cancer before, like the picked wildflowers. The flowers still grow along her farm road and I still get her flowers. They will always be a symbol of renewed life to me and remind me of her struggle and constant willingness to live and grow.

NC 0081-3A-2014

Watercolor

151

Painting in Wonderland Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Louisiana Every week I work with children who have been diagnosed with cancer. I bring them brushes, paint and conversation. When I began volunteering with the Arts in Medicine program at our cancer center, the thought of working with children with cancer saddened me. It didn’t take long for me to realize that though it is sad, these children are just like every other child: silly, playful, scared, brave and imaginative. But they have stronger spirits than we could ever hope to have. This sweet little girl was kind enough to allow me to photograph her while she painted at the clinic. I imagined her transported from that room to a place where her imagination could run free and create something beautiful to replace those 4 walls.

LA 0189-3A-2014

152

Watercolor

Crocus: A New Beginning Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Iowa My journey with cancer began in March 2011 when my husband of 58 years was diagnosed with lung cancer. Sadly, his cancer was too advanced, and he passed away on December 16 of that year. I like to think that he had a new beginning – cancer free! He fought the good fight and I know he’s in a better place.

IA 0212-3A-2014

Watercolor

153

Cancer Isolates Watercolor by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Florida Cancer! My mom was just diagnosed with cancer in her mouth! My journey as a caretaker had only just begun. In 7 weeks, I found myself living in my mother’s home with all of my belongings in storage. For my 84-year-old mom, it was a quick downhill ride into fear, severe pain and an inability to swallow. For me, it was loneliness, doctor visits and trying to feed someone who could barely get water down. Her friends stayed away. “She’s fine! She has her daughter there!” We would take a short day trip to the beach. She is the one sitting at the table, looking out as the world still spun on its daily axis. I took photos and created this watercolor.

154

Watercolor

FL 0253-3A-2014

Category Pastel

155

156

With a Little Help From My Friends Pastel by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Missouri My journey began on October 2011, when my doctor called to tell me I had breast cancer. As he was telling me the news, my first thoughts were, “This is not happening to me,” and “I am terrified I will not be able to do what I need to do.” It’s like finding out you are at the edge of dark scary woods and you need to make correct decisions, which means follow the right path/paths to get to the light, to become a survivor. But as I started my journey, at each step, God, my husband, children, family, friends and medical staff stepped up and walked beside me, helping me walk the path. Thanks to them I am a “survivor”!

Award Winner Best Pastel by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer

MO 0070-1C-2014

Pastel

157

Both Sides Now Pastel by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Tennessee I am the mother of a childhood cancer survivor who was diagnosed with breast cancer. Three weeks later my best friend received the same diagnosis. Two neighbors were in treatment and a third had died. My husband had melanoma. Cancer surrounded me. This painting reflects my journey. I painted and documented my feelings each day of radiation. Storm clouds changed to sunshine. I was the chicken who became an eagle. Valleys became mountains and mountains became valleys. I felt the thorn during procedures but saw the beauty of the rose. Sand sank beneath my feet at the time of diagnosis but I clung to the rock. I can see BOTH SIDES NOW that I am the person diagnosed.

158

Pastel

TN 0050-1C-2014

Ghost Pearl

NC 0180-1C-2014

Pastel by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina Is the world still my oyster? Cancer’s landscape is rugged and remote. I’m scarred from knives and needles. Medicines leave me worn and gray. The oyster is my world now. We have softer sides and brighter spots. We’ve been rescued from tide and time. Curving planes shimmer from battles already won. Oysters are artists. They turn their invaders into pearls. They are warriors, too. My shell has a ghost pearl. Once it was a mark of something darker: a lesion; a tumor; a reminder of cancer’s return. Now it is a moon, a glowing moon in a cold, dark sky. Now it is hope. I am a warrior since the oyster is my world. Pastel

159

Grow in Grace Pastel by a Healthcare Professional Georgia Cancer starts as an abnormal cell and grows. It is not noticed in the rush of living, Noticed maybe, but often dismissed. It starts a life of its own. It has another agenda; it is not your agenda. It plans to bring changes that will cause great testing. It is coming – ready or not – and you will be in the center of chaos. Now take a moment or two – breathe – Stop the rush of life and center on you. There are choices – this is the time – to see Everything more clearly. As someone once informed me, I am glad this cancer came, I see life more beautifully. So I honor all with cancer – for life is a lesson. Grow in Grace.

GA 0054-2C-2014

160

Pastel

The Garden Party Ladies

NJ 0137-2C-2014

Pastel by a Healthcare Professional New Jersey The “Garden Party Ladies,” as our staff, family and friends called them, met one Monday in early spring 15 years ago, when they were scheduled to receive their chemotherapy treatment. The chemistry among these patients was instantaneous. We witnessed their friendship, loyalty and courage. Angel Anne, Hail Mary, Saint Tess, Majestic Gwenyth, and Contessa Antonina opened their hearts and souls unconditionally to each other. Wellness was always in their plans. The diagnosis of cancer had brought 5 souls together, and a “pity party” was never on the agenda. The “Garden Party Ladies” gave us something special, and we were blessed to be a part of the loveliness of their sorority.

Pastel

161

Outside Looking In Pastel by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Washington While being treated for cancer, much of patients’, and often their closest caregivers’, lives are spent indoors, observing the changing days and seasons from behind a window. This original art composition, “Outside Looking In,” speaks of finally being outside of the window, experiencing life as more than an observer through the glass. My youngest son is a pediatric cancer survivor and, happily, he’s doing great now, despite many scars and some hearing loss. Some of the memorable outdoor places we’ve been since he became well are the seashore, a theme park and annual trips to a local pumpkin patch — where we saw a weather-beaten old window just like this one.

Award Winner Best Pastel by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

WA 0131-3C-2014

162

Pastel

Depression

NV 0005-3C-2014

Pastel by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada This drawing represents the feelings I had going through my mother’s journey. I felt alone and secluded myself. It was a very dark, lonely place for me.

Pastel

163

Magic Place Pastel by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Ohio When the problems of life get too big to handle, I close my eyes & dream about my “Unigus.” I climb on his back and he takes me to our secret place far away, where there’s a waterfall flowing into a pond. There’s a gazebo with a bench and table inside. There are lots of flowers, and birds are singing. The sun is shining brightly. I feel only peace.

164

Pastel

OH 0007-3C-2014

Life of Colors

NV 0008-3C-2014

Pastel by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada I let my artwork speak for itself. I want people to look at it and interpret it as they see fit.

Pastel

165

Every Day Is a New Day... Pastel by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada My Aunt is a big part of my life. She gave me the inspiration to color my picture. Whenever she or I was having a bad day, she would keep saying, “Today will be over soon enough. Every day is a new day.” When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, I would hear that saying almost every day.

166

Pastel

NV 0009-3C-2014

Borealis Cosmos Pastel by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Utah Light sky-skin of mountain-cloud upon pond-still. Body-water Underneath reed-teeming salted-trout (skin-sealed by day and by night iced-lids) which drew we out with threads-silken snagged with brighted-lure. Glassed-skin liquid-skin words said we on the surface-slick (reflecting moon-risen stars-spinning bats-flitting), only we whisper upon wide water. Ducks male-green crossing some sky-dry fly under stars white-glowing, pods-outing muck-rising ponds-bottom skin-breaking water-shaking Whisper we across star-pads Need we Mars

UT 0230-3C-2014

Pastel

167

168

Pastel

Category Photography

169

170

Award Winner

Hope Floats

Best Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer

Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Connecticut

CT 0143-1D-2014

Some days I’m sinking, and some days I’m rising above. I felt I had something in common with this picture. The coldness of chemo might just do me in. Then the ray of hope shines through, and I am living again. I’m still above water, floating again. I’m still above water floating to my next journey. Battered and broken down, then patched up to meet a new day. How far will I go? Where will it take me? I don’t know, but I am alive!

Photography

171

The Crucible Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Arkansas The dictionary defines a crucible as a test of faith, patience or strength. For me, cancer became the crucible in which my faith, patience and strength were tested. Five years after a diagnosis of tongue cancer and two years since a diagnosis of breast cancer, I am alive and well and stronger than ever, especially mentally and spiritually. It may sound strange, but cancer was a gift that changed my life and made me a better person.

172

Photography

AR 0033-1D-2014

Faith… Hope… A Cure!

WI 0039-1D-2014

Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Wisconsin I am now a 5-year cancer survivor! I am very grateful for this milestone in my life. Photography has taken me from despair to new heights I never thought I could achieve. I am living life to the fullest. I do not look back on what has happened to me but rather, I look to the future. I have faith – faith in our medical professional world that they will endlessly fight to unravel the evil of cancer, and faith in God to grant these men and women the knowledge necessary for their tasks at hand. Because of faith, I have hope – hope that someday cancer will be eradicated, hope that a cure is found for all cancers. Photography

173

Shadow Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Pennsylvania There is a “Shadow” with a litany of sites to which the cancer has spread. Then there is the “Whole” that handles adversity. There is the Shadow that could not walk to the mailbox because of pain. There is the radiotherapy that took away the pain. There is the Shadow that could not sit without severe pain. There is the pain pump that allowed me to sit pain free for a few hours. There is the Shadow with death estimated in 6 months. There is the chemotherapy that has kept me alive for 4 years. Overall, the picture is one who has lived on borrowed time and treated each day as precious.

174

Photography

PA 0053-1D-2014

Strength Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida With cancer, you learn how fragile life is and that at any given time, you can lose it. Just like this dandelion puff, at any given moment a wind can strip it bare, but the rain made it strong and the wind was not able to scatter the seeds. And that is why I chose this image. Cancer made me stronger. It did not defeat me, but rather, it gave me a will to live and fight. I found the strength to fight for others, talk about my feelings and help others during their journey. This fragile dandelion made stronger by the rain is how I see myself: strong, able to withstand the wind and always ready to change and grow.

FL 0062-1D-2014

Photography

175

Flower Dance Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Indiana Cancer gave me the gift of taking the time to enjoy the beauty around me. While doing yard work, I stopped to enjoy my flowers. A gentle breeze was blowing and it looked like the flowers were dancing. What a joyful sight I would have missed if I hadn’t learned to slow down and enjoy.

IN 0069-1D-2014

176

Photography

Border Patrol

PA 0071-1D-2014

Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Pennsylvania Does cancer start with a thought? I don’t know, I just wish it would go away. An equal equation is not about invasion. An answer to cancer is PEACE With everyone each and every day.

Photography

177

Normal Is Overrated Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer California Slam! Bam! Wow! You have breast cancer. I was overwhelmed. Then, I asked myself, “Okay, what next?” As a public person in the scientific skepticism community, I knew I could not hide this. I didn’t want to pretend everything was wonderful; on the other hand, I did not want to frighten people away from treatment. In my work, I know all too well that there are quacks waiting to sell you false hope and easy treatments. I had to find a balance; cancer treatment is serious business, but at the same time, it is not what it was 10 years ago. We came up with creative ways of showing off my bald head. I showed people that it is just hair and fingernails, nothing to be ashamed of. Move on.

178

Photography

CA 0079-1D-2014

Helping Hand Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina On March 26, 2013, my life forever changed when I was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. As my battle continues, I look back on all the challenges faced, yet I am grateful and blessed by all the wonderful people I have in my life now. It is truly humbling to know that family, friends, medical personnel and many others I have never even met play such a role in my life by lending a Helping Hand. Whether through providing care, smiles, stories, prayers or just open ears, it is all such actions that make each day worth fighting for. That is why I wanted to dedicate this photo to everyone who selflessly gives a Helping Hand in the continuous battle against cancer.

NC 0104-1D-2014

Photography

179

Mask of the Brave Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Texas In June 2013, I underwent surgery to successfully rid my body of “the monster” that is cancer. Many have told me how amazed they were at how well I handled it. By the grace of God, I put on a brave face when deep inside I often felt numb and without emotion, like the face on the artist’s mannequin depicted in my sculpture. It often felt as if I was wearing a mask to hide my true emotions. This was the inspiration for my piece. Unfortunately, one year later, I am waiting for pathology results of biopsies taken from abnormal, suspicious nodes. So, once again I put on my brave face, and with God’s help I will get through this, no matter what the outcome.

TX 0114-1D-2014

180

Photography

Part of the Picture Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Washington The day I received my cancer diagnosis was the day I started on a health adventure I never wanted to go on. From the outset I was determined that even though I had cancer I would not let the cancer have me! Knowing I was in for a tough time, we searched for ways to cope. We found laughter helped tremendously, as did trying to stay creative. I made this necklace from fused glass charms I made to remind me of my surgery and each of the 6 weeks of chemotherapy and radiation I’d completed. My goal now is to move on without letting cancer define me but rather allow it to refine me by becoming just part of the picture that makes up my life.

WA 0115-1D-2014

Photography

181

The Gift of a Photo

MN 0121-1D-2014

Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Minnesota The shadows in this photo reminded me of my very hard struggles being on chemo. But look... the angel is in the shadow with me! She is playing one of my favorite musical instruments, a violin. And she’s playing it just for me! The sunlight shining on the flowers reminds me of being cancer free and the good memories of being able to do the things I love to do.

182

Photography

The murky-grayness reminds me of my ancestors who have gone before me and who I know in my heart are watching over me and praying for me. I am ever so grateful for truly seeing this photo in a new light – with new eyes.

The Spirit of Honu

IL 0122-1D-2014

Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Illinois This photo was taken on our last family vacation before my stage IV breast cancer diagnosis. At the time, I felt an urgent need to visit our family in Hawaii. I’m eternally grateful for this wonderful experience. My children met their extended family, and we had many spontaneous encounters with Hawaiian sea turtles. We saw these majestic creatures everywhere – it was as if they were watching over us. The turtle in my photograph approached us and I was in complete awe of this ancient soul. I pondered how she could be strong and powerful in the water, yet graceful and peaceful on land. Her peace surrounded me. Now, on my cancer journey, I call upon her gift of strength, perseverance and grace as I remember the Spirit of Honu. Photography

183

No Words Needed Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New York Cancer is not just about the person who actually has cancer. Even though I was the one with drains, scars, surgeries, treatment, scans and appointments, my husband was there holding my hand. Saying nothing at all is sometimes more helpful than finding the right words to say. Cancer doesn’t need words or advice or the perfect title. Sometimes all it needs is a hug, a kiss, a shoulder to lean on or a hand to hold. Being there is all I needed, especially when I felt defeated by a mastectomy, unhuman from the drains and like a rag doll from the scars. Holding my hand without saying a word was all I needed and more than I could have ever asked for.

184

Photography

NY 0123-1D-2014

Branches of Beauty

WI 0129-1D-2014

Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Wisconsin I do not understand why people like autumn. I feel sad when the warmth of summer is ending and cold air will soon whirl in. Trees lose their leaves and gardens wither away. When I first hear the words “You have cancer,” I, like most people, thought my life was coming to an end. Chemo treatments caused my hair to fall out, and my body became weary. Over many months of struggling with side effects, I realized that there was hope. Just like the tall birch trees in the picture, I was blessed to be surrounded by many beautiful things. I learned to take one day at a time, and yes, that there is beauty in every day.

Photography

185

Flow with It Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Wisconsin This photo represents my cancer experience. Sometimes rocky, sometimes easy-moving. And the sun shines and the flowers still bloom.

186

Photography

WI 0130-1D-2014

When Life Gives You Lemons

CA 0134-1D-2014

Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer California I was misdiagnosed and by the time they found what cancer I had, it was already stage 4 cervical cancer. I am currently undergoing chemo, and the doctor also wants me to do radiation and/or brachy chemo. It all could have been avoided if my cancer had been caught early or if I had had the correct diagnosis. I am married to a caring, supportive husband, and we have 2 beautiful daughters. I decided cancer is not going to define my life and my passion and that I will focus in the joy and blessings of each day. So, if life brings you lemons, forget the lemonade… Make a convertible! And make sure you have fun with it. Photography

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My Reflection Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Connecticut After a bilateral mastectomy, I was not able to look at myself in the mirror. What an ugly reminder that cancer had taken away my beautiful breasts. After reconstruction, I had full-size breasts once again… but the scars were a reminder that cancer was still winning. With the help of a talented woman, Cassie, who took my ideas and put them down on paper, I found the perfect tattoo artist, Lou, who took those images and created a beautiful art piece on those scarred breasts. One bore a pink steel magnolia – strength and beauty. The other, a hummingbird – adaptability and resiliency with a playful and optimistic outlook. I can look at my reflection in the mirror and see beauty once again. Cancer, you have not won!

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Coraggio Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New York I thought I was in the clear, afraid to make the call. Two weeks had gone by. Early that morning I went to my local church grounds to pray. There was a dead bird at the foot of a big wooden cross. Not a good feeling. I ran some errands after that and received a bill in change with a scripture from the Bible written on it, Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” There’d been so many messages leading up to the diagnosis. Finally I called my gynecologist, who had been on vacation. “Didn’t they tell you?” No matter where we are in our journey it takes coraggio! From my Italian American background: courage.

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War and Peace Within

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Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Texas (Meditations: 2013-2014) *Intention: Accept diagnosis. My body filled with sadness that overflowed down my cheeks in streams. In surrender, came release.

*Intention: Face anger. Images stir a muddy mind. Suddenly, all turned red as anger’s power rose, until fear’s shadow came. Then anger sank behind a curtain of darkness. Anger is in me. My hands squeeze and pound it out into clay.

*Intention: Demystify death. Death memories played, as I recaptured my curiosity, repulsion, denial, fear, grief, acceptance and grace of it. Now is good. Life is now.

*Intention: Quiet mind. Thoughts, like monkeys, jumping from tree to tree. Letting one pass, then another. They all disappear, leaving peaceful space to rest, to be. Quiet mind is my gentlest companion.

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The Long Trail Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Connecticut Through this photograph, I have come to see my journey with multiple myeloma. There is no cure for MM, but I now consider it a chronic disease. The long trail is my journey, hopefully to a cure, but regardless, to a long fulfilling life. Yes, it seems to stretch forever, but that’s how long I want to live. The sticks, stones, branches that cross the trail along the way represent the challenges I will need to overcome. Fear, sadness, anxiety, pain, loneliness, anger… There is a point where I could step off the path and cut the journey short. I will never take that option. I am in this for the long haul. All the way to the sweet or bitter end…

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A Shadow Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Illinois The word cancer strikes fear in the hearts of all who hear it. When I was diagnosed I felt I became the personification of their fear. I was no longer myself. I was the “cancer kid.” No one saw me anymore, because they couldn’t see past the cancer. I was just a shadow of myself.

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From the Valley to the Summit

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Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Arkansas It has been 7 years and 2 battles with breast cancer since I climbed this mountain. I settled into my new norm of watching others climb. Yet my spirit wanted to reach the summit and see that beacon light once more. I did not want to climb alone, so I brought along a ceramic sculpture of my face. This face broke twice, once during each of my cancer journeys, and now stands as a symbol of my brokenness. My broken body yearned for greater heights, to see that beautiful view from the peak. The struggle was real as I climbed with my eyes on the prize. I conquered the mountain the same way I did breast cancer: I looked up, I struggled, but I made it. Photography

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Life, the Journey Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Minnesota We are all born and we all die. What happens between is the journey. Enjoy that journey. Along our journey we encounter good and bad. We quickly embrace the good with open arms. It is how we choose to deal with the bad that defines who we are. Wasting energy and time worrying about what can’t be changed is fruitless. I am not saying give up and quit! Never surrender or quit without a fight. Focus on the love and beauty all around. Vow to never give cancer ANY power over us. We can choose to define who we are, to be the best person we can. Remember that when we reach the end of one journey, a new one ALWAYS begins.

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Purpose Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Louisiana On November 15, 2013, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was hard, and I worried about my kids and husband. As a kid, I considered being tested for the genetic cell mutation after my mom had breast cancer, but over time I forgot. I still wonder if I could have prevented my cancer. Awareness is now a big part of me. God chose my path for a reason. I’m passionate about spreading info about cancer and testing. I now know a big part of my purpose and the reason for this journey. Taking the pictures meant so much to me. I am the same person, only stronger and more appreciative for every new day. I hope this picture raises awareness for anyone who sees it.

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Trust Fall Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Texas trust fall [truhst] [fawl] noun – a trust-building activity often conducted as a group exercise in which a person deliberately allows herself to fall, relying on the other members of the group to catch her. Having cancer felt like one big trust fall. My medical team tells me their recommendations for treating the tumor in my breast. They say, “Lean on.” I hesitate in fear. Finally, I arrive at the moment when I put my trust in their advice and lean back while saying, “Falling!” “Fall on!” they reply. I let go of fear, hoping it will be worth it. I remind myself that trials bring strength and understanding that help us catch others. I surrender and find peace.

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Daily Wonders

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Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Texas The experience of being diagnosed with cancer and facing all of the difficulties of surgery and recovery have had a profound effect on my person and perspective. It has grounded me in the reality of my mortality and the need to value the people and moments in my life. In my busy life, I often missed the opportunities to experience the beauty of nature, friends and family. Now these experiences are a priority. I try to capture these moments of wonder through my photography. However difficult the experience of cancer has been, it has also led to an enrichment of my life.

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Heart of the Redwoods Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Utah In 1993 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. In 2007 multiple myeloma (a blood cancer) arrived – again radiation and chemo with the addition of 2 stem-cell transplants. Remission was the result. During treatment I gained a deep connection to my healthcare providers and fellow patients. Support groups became an important part of my life and still are, as we all continue to heal and pass on our knowledge and caring. My husband and I took a trip to the California redwoods in June 2014. When reviewing my photographs I noticed that a skyward shot in a redwood grove showed the shape of a heart in the center. I see this as a symbol of love and healing for cancer patients and healthcare providers everywhere.

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It’s All Up in the Clouds Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Georgia High above the earth, flying in a plane, I observe and photograph for hours: white clouds, blue sky, land below and water reflecting in the sun. They transport me to another place in time: A heavenly, ethereal, spiritual, dramatic place with wispy, streaming, puffy, rippled, irregular clouds, amongst the calm and expansive blue sky. After surviving 5 challenging cancers over 37 years, so much is above me – G-d, the heavens and life decisions. My choice is life, strength through adversity, faith and trying to live fully beyond the limits of time, in the time I am given here on earth or whenever flying up in the clouds.

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Tree of Hope Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Minnesota I was on a cancer survivor walk sponsored through my oncologist’s office, when I saw this tree, partially tipped over, off to the side of the trail. Half uprooted… half firmly in the ground… semi-bare branches, with one large, broken, dying branch hanging down… but life still making a statement toward the top of the tree. As I looked at this tree, it dawned on me that it’s “ME.” That that is how I feel, uprooted by the diagnosis of cancer, but still firm in everyday life. The broken branch is “THE CANCER.” And at the top of the tree… the hope of life always present in my mind.

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Laura’s Journey Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Ohio I call this photograph Laura’s Journey because this image represents to me the layers that my cancer journey took me through – not only the emotional and physical journeys, but also the longing for home and a sense of place. Home is where we look forward to the times ahead. I feel that although we are undergoing cancer treatment, our lives are not over. We must continue to keep living and to do what gives us pleasure. If we keep finding passion in life, this journey of recovery will go by much more easily. We have the ability to pass on love through what we create. Perhaps our love radiates from our children, making an artistic work or simple acts of kindness.

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Beachcomber’s Mist Photography by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Kentucky “You don’t understand. The issue is not whether you will be able to snowboard; you are going to be lucky to be alive.” The surgical plans to remove the vein that brings blood back to my heart were elaborate and heartbreaking. No longer would I be able to snowboard; even the simple stairs at home would be challenging. As a young adult battling chronic cancer, my life has had significant changes. Despite these, the ocean has always been a special place for me, a healing power washing away worries and pains. Despite my body, I can still enjoy the ocean as I always have. The meditative act of searching the sand for the sea’s small treasures reminds us to seek the small treasures in our everyday lives.

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United in Bravery

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Photography by a Healthcare Professional Nevada I’ll remember that day forever…my beautiful friend’s message…“they found cancer”…the six of us shocked. We are so young, how can this be happening? This journey is not one any of us expected to find ourselves on, but the strength of our bond gives us the bravery needed to carry our friend through, gives her the strength to persevere. A few weeks after her diagnosis, we were all together, just loving and enjoying each other before she would have surgery and begin chemotherapy, and this picture was taken. The six of us, holding onto each other, holding one another up, a circle that nothing can break, certainly not cancer...we’re brave for her, we’re brave for each other, it’s our mantra…Be Brave…

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A Potter and Massage Therapist’s Touch Photography by a Healthcare Professional Florida My passions as a potter and oncology massage therapist blend both of my talents. The ceramic process involves knowledge of clay bodies from one stage to the next: wedging, centering, throwing, drying, firing and glazing. Each process includes patience, understanding the clay’s limits and a vision of a permanent vessel to enjoy. Oncology massage is knowledgeable support throughout treatment. With each change in treatment and large doses of hugs, hope and encouragement, it is an honor to be part of patients’ care. I love that my massage training helps patients, as well as introducing Healing Arts; I am always asking my patients, “What art form has helped you heal during your journey?”

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Unique and Beautiful! Photography by a Healthcare Professional Wisconsin Tulips grow in different sizes, shapes and colors. Likewise, the patients I have had the privilege of caring for during my oncology nursing career have been different sizes, shapes and colors. Tulips first appear in spring and are a sign of hope. The oncology patients I have been fortunate enough to work with begin their “Seasons of Survival” with spring, when everything is fresh and new and they are filled with hope. Tulips might appear to be unremarkable and plain. Oncology patients definitely do not fit this description. Each one is unique and beautiful!

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Tree of Life Photography by a Healthcare Professional Mississippi Our cancer institute collected chemo vial tops to make this art project. Each vial top represents a patient and shows that even chemo vial tops can generate beauty, hope and new life. Living life fully during the battle against cancer is an important part of the process, along with treatment. This picture shows that this battle not only involves patients, but also their caregivers and family members.

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Together on the Journey Photography by a Healthcare Professional Connecticut This image represents the love, caring and support I so often see as I work as an art therapist with cancer patients. The three hands are those of the patient, her mother and her sister. They each created a bracelet that represented their bond and commitment to the healing process. I am so often in awe of the incredible strength and determination cancer patients and their loved ones demonstrate throughout treatment and beyond. When I asked if I could photograph them with their bracelets they naturally placed their hands in this configuration, which I feel so beautifully communicates the power and sensitivity of their connection. For me the image is an icon for the blessing of love, caring and support on the cancer journey.

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Pathway to Healing Photography by a Healthcare Professional California As a chemotherapy nurse, the courage and strength that I see in patients from the beginning of their journey is a constant source of amazement to me. The important things in life come back into focus for them. The joy this brings to patients far outweighs the burden of this disease. As a caregiver, my hope is that I am walking alongside them on their path to give support, hope and strength. Then, I realize that it is my patients who are teaching me these lessons in life. I am deeply touched and inspired by my patients, and I wish they could know the healing and joy they bring to my life. The real reward is discovering the beauty in life along the pathway to healing.

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Reflecting

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Photography by a Healthcare Professional Ohio Retired after 41 years in oncology. Reflecting on the thousands of patients completing their cancer journey with my guidance and support. Chancing upon survivors in my daily life who recount their triumph, as well as seeing loved ones and recalling tenderly those who succumbed to their illness. The gratitude expressed to me at those chance meetings giving me peace, fulfillment and joy that I was privileged to be able to use my skills to assist people in their encounter with this awful disease. Comforting to know that there are successors who will continue my work with skill and dedication, as well as better treatments, so that a park bench will not remain empty because of this illness.

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Beauty in Brokenness Photography by a Healthcare Professional Florida My 6 years working in oncology have been rewarding, but also difficult. It is wonderful to get to bond with the patients, but not everyone wins their battle, which is heartbreaking. My job has helped me to see the beauty surrounding me even though life has its difficulties. This photo I took in North Carolina depicts this for me. The old broken pier signifies the brokenness that disease brings to a person’s life, yet even though it is broken and in need of repair, it is surrounded by the beauty of nature, which depicts the loved ones and caretakers of the cancer patient. Seeing people rally around their loved ones brings the patients hope in their darkest hours.

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Prelude to a Cure Photography by a Healthcare Professional Florida This is a picture I took of a mixedmedia art piece created by lung cancer patients in a clinic waiting room. I was inspired by the alliance of strength as they came together expressing their emotions in color. As they sit side by side, united for comfort, they bear witness to this cancer; knowing it will never break their spirits, knowing it will never claim their love, knowing it will never defeat their souls. In the face of adversity, they have become each other’s inspiration. They are the beginning to an end; they are a Prelude to a Cure.

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Award Winner

Jack’s Hands of “Hope”

Best Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Illinois “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” — Audrey Hepburn Ironically, my husband and I pass a sign at a garden center every other Tuesday on the way to his chemo treatment with this wonderful quote. I think it simply means “Hope.” Jack was diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer in March of 2013. His oncologist prescribed aggressive

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chemo treatment every 2 weeks “indefinitely.” Even with that prognosis, there is “Hope.” When he is lying in bed, suffering from yet another treatment, the “Hope” is to have more good days than bad. When it’s a good day, he’ll go to the garden to water, hoe, pull weeds and tend to the maturing plants. “Hope” is in the garden. Jack is out at the garden.

The Warrior

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Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Alabama Our journey began when my husband, Ted, was diagnosed with glioblastoma, stage IV brain cancer. For 13 months he fought through multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation and daily physical and speech therapy. This photograph, titled “The Warrior,” captures, in a split second, his strength, courage, his brilliant sense of humor and his unceasing love for our family. This is his spirit, which cancer would never reach, that lives within all who love him.

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Life Has Been Hard on Me Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Illinois As I sit here alone again today, I still have hope of being restored like new again someday. I love old antique cars and trucks. Hopefully this appeals to other antiques enthusiasts. Like the picture, some people find that life has been hard on them. They get told they have cancer or some chronic disease that requires daily, weekly or monthly treatments. They come and sit alone getting treatments with the hope of it going into remission and/or being healed and their lives being restored to them again someday. I have had two grandmothers die from cancer. One went quick. It spread so fast she died about a week after she found out she had it. The other fought for several years with surgeries, treatments and radiation before it took her life. I was diagnosed with an immune disorder in 2010 and have taken monthly treatments for four years now. 214

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Passages Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Arizona The narrow, twisting sandstone passageway obscures what lies ahead and seldom permits more than one person to pass at a time. Its vertical walls, too slick for footholds, prohibit a climbing exit. We move ever forward, adding our footprints to the ones of those who journeyed before us. As the spouse and caregiver of a cancer patient, this is my life too. We travel together but it is my wife, a 7-year stage IV lung cancer survivor, who forges the trail. Guided by her medical team, encouraged by family and friends, and strengthened through faith, we relish in the wider peaceful spaces and cautiously approach the next shadow-darkened bend. Anxiety and fear are ever present, but for this day and this moment we are together and life is good!

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The Trip Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Florida A mountain getaway after my wife endured months of grueling cancer treatments. She still shines! I am proud of her!

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Finding My Color Again Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Alabama My journey was traveled with my friend Leslie, a breast cancer survivor who found out her cancer was back after 13 years. Irises are the friendship flower. Leslie was the kind of friend who was always concerned about others even when she couldn’t eat, had no hair and was so very weak. The washed-out color signifies cancer and how it slowly had its way with Leslie’s body. In contrast, the vibrantly colored purple iris represents Leslie’s spirit strong, courageous and never failing! Sadly, a week ago I lost my very dear friend. Today, I am lost and trying to figure out how to put the color back into my world without my friend’s smile. Cancer has a way of taking the color out of more than just the patient’s world!

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Father’s Love Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada This picture is of our Dad, who was ill with cancer, saying good-bye to his terminally ill first born. Cancer robbed Dad of his strength and ability to be with Marcia. He was fighting for his life also. He didn’t know at the time, and neither did we, that he would be joining her before too long. It was Dad’s second bout of cancer. He had won the first round and expected to win the second. But this time he just couldn’t get better. Six months after Dad died, I was diagnosed with the same cancer. I am in remission now and hope to stay that way. Cancer has robbed us of so much, but it cannot steal our love for our family.

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My Mother’s Shoes Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver South Carolina One day I walked into my mother’s room as she was organizing her closet. I looked at all her shoes on the floor and it occurred to me that her shoes are symbolic of how she lives each day: comfortable, practical and logical, like a good leather shoe; with the grace and beauty of evening heels; and strong – an athlete against her lymphoma. So, these may look like ordinary shoes that could belong to any ordinary person, but they are not, these are my mother’s shoes. My mother, like every person who has been touched by cancer, is anything but ordinary.

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This Is Why We Train Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Connecticut This is my younger brother. He was diagnosed with multiple myeloma over a year ago. As my brother went through his treatments, I could see the despair in his eyes. MM has no cure. Among other things, I am a martial arts instructor. One day I had enough of my brother’s moping around. “This is why we train,” I said. “To prepare our bodies for the long road ahead.”

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“This is why we train,” I told him. “Not just for the physicality of martial arts, but also for the mental stamina it imparts.” “This is why we train,” I said. “To prepare you for the unexpected things life throws at you and to go on.” This is why we train…

Quality over Quantity

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Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Massachusetts When you adhere to the commitment of marriage and repeat the words “Till death do us part,” you never think of actually having to face that impasse until much later in life. In fact, those words are echoed in order to prove and solidify that important promise that you make to one another in order to love, build your empire together and see where your potential will bring you. After more than 6 years of marriage, cancer took that potential away from us, and left me without my soul mate. But what cancer didn’t know is how strong, free in spirit and resilient my wife was in choosing to terminate years of treatments and surgeries, and decide on quality of life, rather than quantity.

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Hope Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Louisiana Cancer is blind to the abstract terms Known and held concretely: Age Race Money And just as blind are the people Who haven’t truly Seen Cancer Felt Cancer Lived in the wake of Cancer The survivors of Cancer don’t Just Know it, they Live it Every day, and They survive it in the light of Courage Friendship And above all Hope.

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Happy Place

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Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Texas Finding a happy place, whether that’s a beach or the couch with some ice cream, is essential to avoid losing your mind. Whether you’re a sister, friend, co-worker or the patient, finding a place that brings you peace or happiness — place to call your own — incredibly important. Amidst a crumbling world, a scary diagnosis and a daunting treatment plan, you just want to hide, get away, be on your own. Finding a happy place, a seemingly simple thing, can make a world of a difference.

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Simple Moments Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Alabama After a stunning diagnosis of leukemia (ALL), my young mother was ready to fight. Despite her best efforts and a bone marrow transplant, the cancer returned 15 short months later. In her final days at home, she was able to see this view out of her bedroom window. She reminded her 3 daughters that she would always be around; she wanted us to look for her in streams of light or a bright bird passing by. Although this shot was taken days before she passed, the streaming light and the small birdfeeder in the background are a reminder that cancer didn’t win this fight, for Mom will always be with us, even if it’s in the smallest and simplest moments in life.

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Companion Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Arizona “Everywhere I look, everywhere I walk, you’re still there for us, together… All around you, I suffer and feel your cold skeleton while hot lava flows into my blood! When I grab you I know you are enlacing me to make me stronger… But your encounter is suffocating, so let’s unleash… Be my Companion for guiding me to the celestial poles of the origins of my future life…”

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Wearable Expression Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Arizona Through the meticulous work of the scientists decoding the information of our genes, expressing the intimate molecular and personalized responses of our health transformation, our mothers, sisters, daughters and girlfriends are keeping their grace, covering the shadow of cancer with bright colors of hope and healing, wearing the fabric of femininity, walking the red carpet of life.

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A Moment in Time Photography by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Illinois She is looking at her child and for a moment in time, her mind is not on her disease and troubles but on the beautiful gift that she has brought into this world and all the joy that has provided her.

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Category Mixed Media

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Award Winner

Joy

Best Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Minnesota

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When I was diagnosed with esophageal cancer, my reaction was tempered by lessons in life learned as a boy. At age 5, our family of 4 spent 6 months in the Philippine jungles trying to escape the war. We then spent 3 years in 2 prison camps, not knowing if we would live or die. The admonition of James was as reassuring then, as now, of the purpose of these trials. “Consider it all joy, my brethren when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.” (James 1:2,3) Using the colors I developed for a color system in 1996, I tried to reflect the feeling that, as things seem to get darker, Joy will become the ultimate outcome.

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Bleeding Heart Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Iowa Surviving, Snow, Freezing Temperatures, The plant emerges Developing rapidly from nothing to large, A Bleeding Heart. Red blooms shapes as named.

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A heart dripping tiny petals like blood, Beautiful against a green background Of five pronged leaves, like a hand. The others descend in balance in size To just a tiny tip. A Spectacular Sight in early summer.

Surviving My Winter My Snow, Ice Freezing Temperatures, An Unhealthy Mind, Body and Soul. To emerge in Health To take a New Self into Life For the coming Summers.

Renewal

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Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Michigan In 2006, I was diagnosed with breast cancer while my husband was dying. After burying him, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and hormonal therapy followed. I am still in my recovery process. I give back to the healthcare system that helped me. Cancer taught me to be “in the moment,” to appreciate relationships and the beauty that surrounds me. “Renewal” on the shores of Lake Michigan illustrates that feeling. In 2011, I reunited with my stepdaughter. She lost her battle with lymphoma in 2013. After her death, we created a foundation in her honor. My stepdaughter was never able to enjoy her recovery. This painting of me is also for her. My goal is to appreciate, be “in the moment,” and enjoy the beauty that surrounds me.

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Old Woman Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Massachusetts Fighting breast cancer for 19 years, I’ve had endless tests, scans, lumpectomies, a mastectomy, radiation and hormone treatments. But I know how lucky I am. While I was undergoing my various treatments and surgeries: my sister died of colon cancer; my brotherin-law and my uncle died of lung cancer; my father died of stomach cancer; my aunt and my best friend both died of breast cancer. I’m fortunate to have a treatable cancer. Not everyone is so lucky. I’m a sculptor. This drawing is a preparatory drawing for my sculpture, “Old Woman,” inspired by a woman I saw in the hospital who was overwhelmed with her battle with cancer. Sometimes I feel like her.

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Pearls of Wisdom Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina My battle against breast cancer began with a special gift from my twin sister. Her gift was a card of encouragement and a pair of pearl earrings. The card featured an oyster and told the story of how it would fight a foreign object that had entered its shell. The oyster places layers upon layers of nacre to rid itself of the irritant. The oyster’s battle ends with the creation of a precious pearl. The fight ahead of me would be much like the oyster’s. Determined and wearing my earrings, I began my journey. My layers would be 17 chemo rounds and 33 radiation treatments. After my long and sometimes difficult journey, I too had created something beautiful. I am a strong woman who has survived breast cancer. Life is good now and maybe even a little better. Cancer has shown me what is important in my life and what I needed to let go. I celebrate the survivors and hope that all cancer patients still fighting will find their pearl.

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Behind Enemy Lines

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Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Washington When my cancer diagnosis had me re-evaluating my options, I realized how much I missed working with my dreams. A lucky reconnection with my former therapist has supported my dreamwork since, and this chronic disease continues to help me make deeper choices daily. During treatment, I dreamt of a paratrooper floating down behind enemy lines. I felt reassured that my treatment was going where it would do the most good.

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In addition to the painting, I wrote a poem that included: Thistledown of parachute’s silent descent Through a starless illusion of sleep’s security Deployment’s secret invasion of advance forces. Behind the lines… Invisible deliverance of good medicine’s vital mission Healing carried in on nightly dreams.

Colors of My Life Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer South Dakota After diagnosis, I experienced a rainbow of emotions. From the red of anger and the yellow of elation at being alive to the dark colors of fear of the future. One day I looked in the mirror and cried. I did not recognize this puffy-faced person with no eyebrows, eyelashes or hair on my head. I felt I was a ghost of my former self. As the colors of inner peace began to emerge from within me, I started looking in the mirror and envisioning what I would become, began to believe that a strong vibrant woman would emerge from the ghost I was seeing and be filled with all the colors that being a survivor can bring.

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NED Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Arizona The three letters in the alphabet all cancer patients want to hear. NED = no evidence of disease. Imagine hearing those letters after a difficult, thorny/prickly cancer journey. I felt joy, peace, optimism, hope, so much gratitude and excitement for my future. I sure am happy to know NED. I hope we remain friends for a long, long time.

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Picking Up My Pieces Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Washington I had lost my grandmother to breast cancer and I was so scared when I heard those words said to me 6 years ago. With everyone’s support, I held my pieces together. Two years ago, I was diagnosed again with breast cancer. This time it was harder holding the pieces together. I had lost pieces of me. Scattered to the cosmos, how could this, that is me, ever be put back together? My loving husband is just glad to have the puzzle that is me. He does not care that some pieces are missing and never to be found. He is there. As I close my eyes, I take a breath… and start picking up my pieces.

WA 0052-1F-2014

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Celebration Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Ohio This prayer flag symbolizes my intentions of hope, strength, gratitude and celebration for the 22 years that I’ve been in remission from osteogenic sarcoma. It has been through this journey that I discovered how the power of art can heal, recover, and transform my life in so many ways. Like the hummingbird, I’m constantly inspired to seek out richness and beauty of the world around me. Both the art materials and art process in making this prayer flag serve as symbolic representations for letting go of the past, embracing the present and looking forward to the future. I’ve found comfort in this place of peace and acceptance. My hope is that this prayer flag will serve as a place of comfort and healing for countless lives that have been touched by cancer as well.

OH 0056-1F-2014

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The Journey

MS 0061-1F-2014

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Mississippi In my late 20s, after surrendering my life to the Lord, I was shocked and horrified to find out that I had breast cancer. I had a double mastectomy 2 weeks afterward and started chemo within the next 6 weeks. After my body had time to recover, I started my plastic surgery. My next big surprise was truly a blessing. I was pregnant with my son. During my pregnancy I decided to go back to college. When I graduated from college I got a job working in a cancer clinic. Every day I see patients facing the same fears that I had faced. If I can comfort just one person by telling her about my own experience 10 years ago, the journey has been worth it all!

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Amazing Grace Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Tennessee I’ve been diagnosed with lung cancer, stage 4, due to a mutation on the EGFR gene. The time frame could have been from 2 to 8 weeks to 6 months to live. This painting depicted the time that I was dying. It was a beautiful storm expressing His amazing grace upon me. Meanwhile, it illustrated human emotions at the time of losing the loved one. Yes, death was the natural process. Though death may hang on to me (green butterfly), the blue butterfly represented God (who I call Daddie), my mom and Hercules pulling me out of death’s arms. In a split second, His amazing grace empowered the critical moment between life and death. And yes, I am forever grateful, Daddie.

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TN 0068-1F-2014

The Photograph

NV 0076-1F-2014

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Nevada Standing in front of the mirror, I looked at the reflection and asked, “Why? What is this about? Why me? What did I do to deserve this cancer?” Albeit “the good cancer,” so I was told. The reflection showed despair, fatigue; where did joy and fun go? What is the meaning? Searching my face in the mirror I saw dullness, deep in my soul. Where was the epiphany? My silhouette, words spinning in my head, overwhelming feelings; did the mirror hold the answer? Then it happened, there in that photograph taken at the cancer center, the “Aha” moment. It was “me” looking back at me! My searches for meaning led back to the true me; the true self that cancer did not touch.

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Initial Diagnosis, Recurrence and Now Remission Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New Jersey What we see and feel as patients and survivors is not easy. Living with the effects, we are a diverse bunch. In common, we share the ability to overcome, and the hope that there will one day be a cure, so that others will not have to experience what we have gone through. What was once considered a certain death diagnosis has since changed to a manageable condition due to changes in effective treatment, resulting in, for the most part, a virtually normal life for many patients. For all the hope that we share, we also share survival, loss and grief for those that have traveled upon the same path before us. I celebrate my survival.

NJ 0077-1F-2014

244 Mixed Media

Like the Many Facets of a Diamond Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer California First: Fear and worry. Did they get it all? Will the treatments work? Nausea? Ugh! (I didn’t realize the “gift” coming my way.) Next: Well, there was the baldness, of course, and the pale yellow complexion. All courtesy of chemo… Thank you very much! (Still I couldn’t see the beautiful “gift” waiting for me.) Then: Treatment ending, healing beginning, venturing out to find… The grass is greener, the sky is bluer, and life holds more than I ever knew. NOW: Sensing every single, tiny, ordinary flicker of life, I found an unanticipated “gift”… “Awareness of the precious and miraculous facets of being.” Ooooooh! Life does sparkle like the many facets of a diamond.

CA 0085-1F-2014

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Living My Faith Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Arkansas The day I heard, “You have breast cancer,” my whole life changed. At first, fear set in, but God always puts people in your life to help you. The day I was diagnosed I called my friend, a breast cancer survivor. She suggested I attend a cancer support meeting, which was being held that night. My Mom and sister went with me. Those women at that meeting gave me so much hope. I’m so grateful for my Mom (she went to almost every chemo with me!), my family, the people who supported me and prayed for me, and for all the medical staff. Life is truly precious and my walk with God is so much closer. God is awesome!

AR 0089-1F-2014

246 Mixed Media

Four Seasons Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Washington, DC I’ve been through four seasons with cancer. My artwork is composed of several layers. It starts with a breast ultrasound at the bottom, followed by a few rough and rustic layers – a cancer diagnosis in early 2013, a mastectomy, and more – until a very thin/delicate but healthy layer forms on the top. New, fresh life makes its way through to the surface from my center of gravity and expands all around, enlightening the whole. New life starts to bloom, and soon the warmth and brightness of summer completes this colorful and full-of-energy picture. The fall leaves and winter colors have been covered almost completely. Their presence is and will remain somehow noticeable. They are fundamental pillars of who I am today.

DC 0092-1F-2014

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Beauty in the Midst of Tragedy Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Connecticut When I was first diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer, my family was devastated and many tears flowed. We knew the operation would be extensive because the cancer had spread beyond the uterus. The operation went well but chemotherapy was needed to eliminate traces of cancer still in my body. My photo art becomes significant because it shows the design my hair loss made in the shower drain. I saw beauty in the midst of tragedy. My cancer experience has shown this to be true in the outpouring of love from my family and so many beautiful friends. My cancer has allowed me to see not only how much I am loved, but also how my condition has allowed me to touch the hearts of others.

CT 0099-1F-2014

248 Mixed Media

Flying with Gratitude

FL 0106-1F-2014

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida I was diagnosed with lung cancer stage IIIa on 12/23/11. I am a nonsmoker, but that should not matter because no one deserves cancer. It’s been 2.5 years, and now I am stage IV, in treatment but stable. I love to paint and I’m lucky to now have the time to devote to creating. The dragonflies in the painting symbolize that I am never flying through this alone. I have a wonderful support system from my husband, cat, sons, mother, family, friends, doctors, nurses, radiologist, pharmacist and neighbors. The dragonflies’ message is to live fully in the present and live with kindness and joy.

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The Door Is Open! Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Michigan After being cancer free for over 6 years, I was hit with a diagnosis I never expected. I was being treated for bronchitis when my doctor ordered a chest x-ray to make sure I didn’t have pneumonia. My x-ray showed there were lesions on my lungs. After further testing, I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer involving both lungs and liver. A PET scan and brain MRI showed tumors in my brain. I felt as if I had just run into a brick wall! My cancer is incurable, but I am being treated by a team of health professionals who have given me hope. My painting expresses my feelings now... should I remain in a birdcage and watch the world go by… THE DOOR IS OPEN! I CHOOSE TO FLY!

MI 0113-1F-2014

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Awakening Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Washington When I was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 41, most people would have said I was living a dream, and they would have been right. I had everything I wanted, but nothing I needed to deal with the truth of cancer. We each want to make the journey to that miraculous place called Cancer Free on our own, but we travel as part of a family bound by the shared experience of confronting a great challenge. In that sense, we are never alone. The purpose of this collection of self-portraits is to contribute to your understanding that when you get cancer, you really are part of a new family, and that that family is always with you in thought, prayer and when possible, deed. Love always,

WA 0117-1F-2014

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The Silver Flower Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina The cancer journey is like a flower. Breast cancer is like a silver flower. It opens up when treated. A beautiful flower that cannot be destroyed, trampled on or broken. Made up of many petals, lace and layers outlined by silver thread. Each year chemo tests the flower, it continues to be beautiful inside and out.

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NC 0120-1F-2014

FL 0133-1F-2014

Cancer Must Be Stopped Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida Cancer. This horrible, indiscriminate destroyer of lives must be STOPPED. Treatments, cures and vaccines have to be found. It cannot be tolerated that it continues to hurt our children, parents, spouses, friends and neighbors.

As an artist with a synovial sarcoma on my right hand, I accepted that if I lived, my hand would be taken. My art would be lost. That thought was more painful than the process I had to go through to keep it. I was one of the lucky ones. CANCER MUST BE STOPPED. Please help my grandson grow up in a world without cancer.

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Perspective Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Louisiana With a hand mirror raised above my head, I squinted hard to see what the bumps I felt on my freshly buzzed head looked like. “Is that me?” I thought. Not only was I bald, no doubt about that, but I’d never seen myself from that perspective before. Something inside me shouted, “It really is all about perspective!” I remember one of my worst days: curled up in bed; nothing making me feel better; knowing God, my family and friends all loved me; and hearing a voice clearly say, “Remember you gotta love yourself.” My favorite inspiration from this new perspective was when I came up with “Find the Happy! – See it, Hear it, Speak it!” If you’re not finding it, just change your perspective!

LA 0154-1F-2014

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Moment: Moment Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Mississippi Journeying through cancer requires flexibility and resilience. Everything about current existence changes at the instant of original diagnosis. My life flat-lined from myriad facets into a focused regimen of treatment and doctors appointments, with decisions made based on the moment. The abstract quality of the colors, shapes, textures and line variations represent my path through the experience of cancer. Clarity and tranquility, shown as white space, intermittently emerged interspersed amid waves of side effects and other directly related issues. Translating reality and subjective experiences into visual art intrigues and stimulates me. I thank the Universe for giving me the time to process this journey into visual media. I also thank the Universe for all who have assisted me and are continuing to assist me with my journey through cancer.

MS 0161-1F-2014

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NY 0164-1F-2014

Margin Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New York Margin, definition: An amount allowed beyond what is actually necessary A limit in condition beyond which something ceases to exist, to be possible A limit in capacity beyond which something ceases to be desirable

A time in my life A rampart during a period of furrows Previously taking everything life has thrown Now I’m rushing the mound

Inside the margin The spot where it began Interstitial space cleaved my past present life But it is not the place where it will end

My life darned A sartorial response, mending the fabric of my time Elasticity conforms to a new present Margins melded, blurring my limits An opportunity, a freedom My milieu disintegrated Ennui of the pluperfect gone Revealing an unforeseen direction

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My Tangle with Cancer

MA 0165-1F-2014

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Massachusetts These tiles and white board in their entirety show 3 distinct phases of my journey. Phase I, the top 3 tiles, shows day of diagnosis, Q & A and how cancer develops. Phase 2, the middle tiles, is surgery, chemo and completion. Phase 3, the bottom tiles, is my volunteer work to fight the beast, first recurrence and success. Utilizing the white space of the poster creates visual effect and is part of the design. Each tile tells its own part, but must be in conjunction with the rest of them to tell the complete story. The tangles are symbolic. For example, mid-row tile one shows clocks of when surgery started and ended. In the last row, the first tile shows my commitment to educate, learn, advocate and mentor.

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Jesus Loves Me Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina “Jesus Loves Me” became my theme song during the stressful breast MRI. Singing this children’s song was the only thing that calmed me. Special friends showed support by writing Bible scriptures for each chemo treatment and extra ones for difficult days. Gifts given blessed me by showing I was not alone on this journey to recovery. My wonderful prince-husband supported me through it all. He accompanied me to doctor appointments. He kept fresh flowers in the house throughout the treatments. The highlight of my day was receiving cards in the mail with many well wishes and prayers. This picture is a tribute to all my supporters who became the hands of Jesus. Thanks to family and friends for the love and prayers.

NC 0169-1F-2014

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An Allegory of My Cancer Battle: “The Malevolent Eye of the Rose” Mixed media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Ohio Lurking in the darkness my unseen enemy, my cancer. Here together Battleground defined. The rose commences with secret weapon, her delicate beauty and alluring fragrance. Like the sirens, by their voices did they the ships lure… So too does the Rose, with her cancer-toxic fragrance lure out from hiding, her unseen enemy, the coward. Out from the darkened abyss, the Rose from her Malevolent EYE now takes aim, then fires… one after another, another one dead with each penetrating glance. So does this legend go, as this fierce warrior emptied the contents of her quiver, she looked down upon her defeated enemy, and with one more glance, and a smile, she spat upon the remains of her unworthy opponent. OH 0170-1F-2014

One step at a time, she then continued to conquer more.

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Imagine Winning! Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina When the doctors said, “You have a rare blood cancer,” I imagined my support system as an 8-flame-shaped group unique to my persona. The top flame of support, #1, symbolizes my family. #2 stands for artists and colleagues at work. #3 is students before and now. #4 is books and technology. #5 is my God and prayer. #6 is animals and my friends who have them. #7 is my church members. #8 is medical professionals and friends. I have great belief in miracles happening, and I believe in the phrase: “possibility of the impossible.” Therefore, flying armadillos are my symbol of incredible things happening. A positive outlook keeps me believing that a cure will be found for cancer. I am 9 years in remission from NHL mantle cell!

NC 0174-1F-2014

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Blind Faith

NC 0185-1F-2014

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina Collages embody aspects of life – how it is pieced together, fragile, a constant recreation. Sometimes there are familiar threads. More often, life is a collection of unexpected and obscure threads. Sometimes, it is not until I am looking back that I am able to make sense of the obscurity. Sometimes, my experiences remain obscure no matter how hard I try to find answers. Some experiences are confusing and defy all logic. But they happen. That is life. That is cancer. Twice, I have walked the unknown terrain of treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Almost 4 years separate my 2 diagnoses. Often, through this process, I did not know where I was going. I still do not. But I am determined to move forward, making sense of my world along the way.

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Living Life with Joy Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New Jersey First, I cried. I had a good life and believed it over. I did not want to be depressed or become a self-absorbed hypochondriac. I spoke to my priest about my concerns and took his advice to pray for a life free of worry, and to let God take care of what would come. Something clicked, and I found humor and blessings in each step of surgery and recovery. Little annoyances became meaningless. Chemo? It was the best bug repellent ever. Bald? Pop on a cap marked “No Hair Day” and become a source of amusement for others too. Sure, there were setbacks, but every day presented ways to celebrate and live life with joy. A life of joy as a blessing of cancer.

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NJ 0188-1F-2014

Crabs for Lunch

MD 0199-1F-2014

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Maryland Once you get past your fifth year after the cancer diagnosis, and you have had radiation and chemotherapy, you realize small things are life’s beautiful gems. All the ups and downs of your treatment start to fade, the nausea or pain becomes a distant memory and you start to become more aware of all the little things surrounding you. While driving around during my Iunch break, I saw a brilliant white crane eating crabs and fish. I took a moment to admire the bird having such a bountiful lunch; it was just one of the beautiful things I am so thankful to be alive to witness through the hustle and rush of life.

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The Hope in Me Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer California Every autumn, my grandmother inspired us to catch a falling leaf. I think upon her battle with breast cancer and her last words to me, “Clear your head... be patient. Focus, and the right one will come.” I was sitting in a chemo chair when my sweetheart and I were to marry. We met in the heart of NYC, 3 years after my breast cancer began growing under the radar, after toxic exposure on 9/11. After my surgeries and treatments, we married on Patron Saint of Breast Cancer Day, and the day before, my husband caught… a falling leaf! I feel like that lucky leaf: Waking up one morning with a dream to get my breasts checked, and freeing myself from cancer.

CA 0201-1F-2014

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Humane Vitai

HI 0203-1F-2014

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Hawaii Act I. Autumn Leave Takings. Autumn is when cancer covertly crept into my life, its leave takings of my healthy body. The ogre slinked through my person 3 times. Act II. Winter Woes. Winter rolls in shrieking and wailing. I am fastened to machines that puff and hiss. I rest, seeking respite for my bruised body, gently encouraged by the goodness of others. Warm smiles, kind words are freshening of life itself on my recovery theater. As one scene melds into another, I realize I am alive, still kicking with one remaining foot. Act III. Spring of the Heart. The hope for spring inspires me to assume my place along the puzzled pathway of life thriving in the stunning garden of the living.

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Proud to Be a Military Wife Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Colorado This painting is about the love between my husband and me. He is an American and I am from the Philippines. This is about having fun! My husband has been my support, my everything, since I was diagnosed.

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CO 0204-1F-2014

Finding Joy/ Managing Fear Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Indiana This layered multimedia collage represents my journey after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Frequently, I was required to wait for many days to learn the results of tests, surgeries and treatments. I worked hard to manage the fear and not let it dominate my life. I countered the fear with joy – the joy of creating artwork, inspired by art quilts, and crazy quilts in particular. Starting near the top, the first layer is series of small blocks of color, representing life before my diagnosis. The second layer is the 7 vertical, pink, textured bands representing the 7 times that I waited for results. The third layer consists of 4 squares (4 seasons) of colorful shapes, arranged in patterns that are representative of crazy quilts.

IN 0207-1F-2014

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Goddess of Strength Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Florida Fear of the unknown. A lump not shown. Tests bring the diagnosis not wanting to hear Breast Cancer becomes the message that I fear. Loss of hair, sickness, weakness through the chemo was to be. The daily routine was needed for a positive outcome to date for me. Over 4 years has passed from the beginning of my strife. Good health, family and friends are the most important things in life. If not for the doctors, nurses, and all the other medical groups for their access. The treatments for cancer would never be in progress.

FL 0210-1F-2014

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Fragile as Glass, Strong as Steel

IA 0211-1F-2014

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Iowa This piece is a metaphor about the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit. In October 2008, I was diagnosed with stage 2 rectal cancer. My life, like this glass, could never again be the same, but through treatment, it could be made more or less intact. Through the darkness of diagnosis, radiation, chemo, surgery and postoperative chemo, a reconfigured version emerged – bound by the 3 bands of family, friends and medical professionals who were with me every step of the way. From this experience came a bright, shining outlook on life and a steely resolve to never take life for granted and to live each day is if it were a gift.

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From Little Liver Slivers, Great Expectations Grow Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Texas Approach every day and everything with joy. This has been my mantra since reaching my 60th birthday and being 2.5 years post-diagnosis of non-resectable, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. This form of cholangiocarcinoma is a rare, aggressive form of bile duct cancer that is found in the liver; only 2000 to 3000 cases are diagnosed per year. My initial prognosis in 2011 was 6 to 8 months with palliative care and chemotherapy, but with the healing power of God, support and love from my spouse and caretaker, and help from my friends and family, I have exceeded all expectations. My multimedia piece, Little Liver Slivers, combines pastels, colored pencils, ink and a great deal of tongue-incheek humor.

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TX 0213-1F-2014

Growing Through the Narrow Spot of Cancer

MN 0215-1F-2014

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Minnesota I describe cancer as the narrow spot in an hourglass. I am the sand that has traveled from the top, through the tight spot, to the bottom – the same sand, and now arranged differently. My cancer story began with a soft, non-painful lump on my left wrist, followed by the diagnosis of soft-tissue sarcoma. This led to the amputation of my dominant hand and forearm. I cannot hide it, nor do I want to. Change is inevitable and transformation is not effortless. With faith, patience, persistence and grace, I say, “Yes, this has happened, and now what?” I find resources, ask for help and accept the reality of the new arrangement in my sand. I am a cancer thriver. I am living life.

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In the Garden of Earthly Delights Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New York After searching for years I’ve found my Garden of Earthly Delights. Through my art, I’ve found a way to fulfill my desire to construct and organize my world. I’ve found a place for reflection, a place where I can find asylum. Scenes are envisioned, then generated, from a mixture of fantasy, mood and symbolism, blended together in a variety of ways to create my own world. Here I can find a haven, an oasis of my own realization. Inspired by all I see, I can allow myself to explore unknown territories, giving my imagination full range to conjure up the many images depicted in my art and let my fancy roam freely. Through visions of this world, I can participate in its ability to heal and realize a sense of peace.

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NY 0220-1F-2014

Cancer Chaos

KS 0222-1F-2014

Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Kansas First you’re diagnosed, and then you rush from doctor to doctor, then therapy to therapy, then you become weak, then dependent for driving, housing, clothing, bathing, eating, everything you used to do on your own… Depression starts, your muscles ache, there isn’t any relief, then they weaken, then eating becomes a problem, then no one understands who you’ve become because of this thing called “cancer”… And all you want is for the therapy to work and the misery to stop… And One Day it happens.

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Unknown Path Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Washington It’s funny how life will take you down so many paths. It’s a new journey every day. Cancer is one of those paths. It’s not a one-way street. It opens up my eyes. My mind is working full-time. I’m looking forward to many more paths. A vast expanse. I’m stronger with every new path.

WA 0223-1F-2014

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The Tree of My Life Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer South Carolina This tree represents my journey through breast cancer. The words tell the story of the many things that got me through not only breast cancer, but also my fight through alcoholism at the same time. The tree’s roots will always stay strong through whatever comes its way. I always stayed positive throughout my journey and now I think of it as a gift; it has taught me many things and has made me so much stronger. Thanks to the Tree and the Angels that have been sent my way; I am so grateful. Blessed by my journey, I am a survivor and hopefully I can help others. Life is Beautiful.

SC 0226-1F-2014

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Digging Deep Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Illinois If you dig deep enough, everyone has a story. I discovered scratchboards (hard boards covered in clay and India ink), while undergoing a breast cancer diagnosis. I got lost in the details and escaped to a better place. Cutting tool in hand, I breathed new life into this weed by digging into the layers of ink and clay. Everything is captured in time, from the roots to the yellow flowers wilting in the hot sun. The idea that adversity teaches us to turn the negative into a positive is a great analogy for transforming these black boards into thriving works of art.

IL 0228-1F-2014

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The Long Journey Back to Normal Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Oklahoma I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January of 2012, just a few weeks after I turned 30. The diagnosis was a big shock, as well as a turning point in my life. I underwent a double mastectomy, chemo, radiation and reconstruction in a 2-year period. I have been a Christian for about 10 years, but my experience made my walk with the Lord a lot stronger. I had a lot of whys and hows, but He sustained me through it all and I came out stronger. I didn’t know how strong I was until I came out on the other side cancer free! There’re a bunch of scars, but that’s okay, because I call them my battle wounds!

OK 0233-1F-2014

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The Journey Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina The words “You have cancer” started an ongoing journey of shared emotions and experiences with my partner, Chris; my friends; and my family. I have seen my ups and downs fighting this disease, and I try to maintain a positive outlook to reach my goal of remission. Cancer isn’t just a disease that affects your body, it affects everything connected to you, including your finances and your identity. You can let it take over your life or use it to start in a new direction. My weapon against cancer is my creativity. My paintbrush is my sword, and my palette, my shield. Onward and upward.

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NC 0234-1F-2014

NC 0240-1F-2014

My Transformation Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer North Carolina Cancer is a miserable walk, especially when you are alone. I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2005. I felt abandoned, and I slipped into a state of denial and fear.

My search led me though chemotherapy and radiation. I have become bald twice. I have been a test rat for many companies that were looking for cures for and advances in myeloma.

I began to search for the cure. In my search I found my kaleidoscope of cancer, representing many different cancers, each with a distinctive color.

Now I look for more Faith, Hope, Love, understanding, etc. During my search I found many cases of cancer in states of no return. Even though there is no cure for multiple myeloma, I still search for HOPE and one day to be blessed by the CURE.

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Belly Dancing on Top of Rose Petals Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer New York I was diagnosed with breast cancer 4 months after my mother passed away from the same disease. The day I buried her, I had a dream of us walking together. As we walked, she kept giving me rose petals, too many for me to carry. I saw this dream as a gift from my mother, a sparkle of “hope” to keep going. Since then, I’ve discovered the hidden dancer in me, and now I dance in rose petals, sharing with others that sparkle of hope. In this piece I used acrylic and lace, intertwined to create a river of petals blowing in the wind as the woman dances on them, swaying her beautiful veil.

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NY 0242-1F-2014

TX 0245-1F-2014

She Was So Colorful Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Texas She made everyone feel special, like they were the favorite. Then she whispered not to let anyone know, so their feelings weren’t hurt. It was our own little secret. And it gave me a sense of honor, power: unique from everyone else. Even when she became ill, she continued to keep our secret. She called frequently; the last call, I didn’t get. But my

voicemail did. “Happy Birthday to You,” her voice struggling to sing. I cried as I played the message. Even while her weak body painfully deteriorated daily, she was able to bring so much joy. I cried so much when she left us, and laughed when I found out: Everyone had been told they were her favorite. Again, just to bring each and every one of us joy.

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MA 0250-1F-2014

New Spirit Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Massachusetts This piece, New Spirit, was inspired by a prayer that I’ve read repeatedly since being diagnosed with stage IV rectal cancer in 2011. It has brought me immeasurable comfort.

patience is the acceptance that you may not know where you are being led, but to trust God as he leads you through this time of anxiety when you’re also feeling suspenseful and incomplete.

This new spirit, depicted here as a bright light fighting through a deep darkness, is described in the prayer as a patient trust. The

My cancer is treatable but incurable, and I’ll be relying on this little prayer for quiet inspiration for what I hope will be a long time.

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I Am an Angel Now Mixed Media by a Person Diagnosed with Cancer Kansas I am an angel now… I tried to tell her… Warn her… Laying directly on her cancer… her right breast… staring into her eyes… no blinking kisses… she is puzzled… only I know… all is not well… she has cancer… I cannot get her attention… I am getting older… I am getting sick… I am gone… She can hardly bear to face my scattered toys… dishes… vacuuming my hairs on the basement stairs… tumble… the vacuum falls, hitting her arm… but the tumor becomes visible on her breast… finally I have alerted her even after I am gone… later, tumor and breast removed... chemo begun… she will survive… later she dreams of me, awakening in tears, realizing…

KS 0258-1F-2014

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Indomitable Heart Mixed Media by a Healthcare Professional New York Now I begin my journey. Whose heart is in this gentle spiral? Stay apart from the goings-on of the bad cells, my mother advised; they have their own business. It’s all in how you live in their presence. My Aunt Lucy survived her advanced cancer, during treatment picturing herself clean and untouched – her own journey to healing always looking inward to where life begins and ends. What an adventure, to create compartments of song and dance, of fulfillment and joy, and what to leave behind. We are everyone, members one of another. My journey is outwardly the path of healing but inwardly my own creation of what I am to be, a reflection of all the hearts courageous.

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Mixed Media

NY 0026-2F-2014

No Matter How Hard They Tried, They Couldn’t Stop Her From Leaving Mixed Media by a Healthcare Professional Pennsylvania As an art therapist running a creative expressions support group at a cancer center, I have seen many patients come and go. Some have left because they are healthy and ready to move on with their lives. Some have left this life. All have struggled, physically, emotionally and spiritually, but somehow managed to grow or transform. I created this piece to honor my patients. I have learned so much from each and every one of them!

PA 0046-2F-2014

Mixed Media

285

Lemonade Mixed Media by a Healthcare Professional Texas This landscape is made from intravenous medication vial tops. It is my representation of finding the good through the bad. Making lemonade from lemons. If you can find art in the necessary trash used to safeguard medication, then you can find the beauty in caring for patients with cancer. As a nurse I often stop to think about the people I have met through the years and I have been blessed to know them all. There have been many smiles and many tears. Each person has touched my life, and I hope that I have touched theirs in some positive way. Cancer treatment is hard, but it is also the potential for cure and the hope for many more tomorrows.

286

Mixed Media

TX 0097-2F-2014

I Will Always Be with You Mixed Media by a Healthcare Professional Maine As healthcare professionals, we see many patients who are faced with cancer and living with a disease that will eventually take them from us. It is an honor and a privilege to get to know these amazing people who show such courage. It wasn’t until a coworker was diagnosed with breast cancer that we began to question what life would be like without our friend. We get so used to seeing them laughing, talking and making plans for the future. When she passed, it seemed like all our plans were now gone. Then we remembered her words: “No matter where you are, what you are doing, I will always be with you. You could be sitting in a room with the window open and I will be there.”

ME 0175-2F-2014

Mixed Media

287

Award Winner

Inspiration

Best Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver

Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Ohio My life has been about creating and inspiring others to create. I was incredibly blessed by my mother who inspired me to be the woman, mother and teacher I am today. My mother challenged me to be the best I could be. My mother passed away of lymphoma six years ago. A hard-fought battle of strength and determination. My mother taught my sister and me to be self-sufficient and strong women. She empowered us to believe in ourselves and to never forget the needs of others. She was the most giving and loving person I will ever know. My painting reflects her inner beauty and the simplicity of her life lessons. As this flower grows the beautiful memory of her lives on.

288

Mixed Media

OH 0017-3F-2014

Grandpa Gorilla

NV 0012-3F-2014

Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada Grandpa Gorilla is an image of a grandfather holding hands with his granddaughter and is a reflection of my experience with my grandpa going through his battle with prostate cancer, which he won. His diagnosis was a complete shock and was a reminder to cherish every second you have with your loved ones.

Mixed Media

289

We Kicked Cancer’s… Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Nevada In late November 2012, my wife was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, and in late January 2013, started 18 weeks of chemotherapy, followed by 29 sessions of combined chemo and radiation. During all these treatments, she was getting once-a-week acupuncture treatments, and twice-a-week Chi Gung lessons. “We” consists of our AMA team – one for chemo, one for radiation, one for surgery, and one team leader. They cured her. There’s also our Oriental Medicine team – one for acupuncture, and another for Chi Gung. This pair minimized the side-effects. In early November 2013, testing confirmed she was cancer-free! Now we have the security of knowing that the cancerous area has been cured, and a colostomy is NOT in the near future!

290

Mixed Media

NV 0013-3F-2014

Jennie Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Massachusetts Diagnosis. Surgery. Chemotherapy. Remission. Recurrence. Chemotherapy. Radiation. Remission. While working on this piece, I thought about how cancer changed my sister Jennie’s life. Her portrait is a black-and-white photograph of a painting I made a decade ago. Who knew that the teal background in the original painting is the color of ovarian cancer awareness? This piece is saturated with symbols that are part of Jennie’s life: • Horizontal bars stand for the way her life is segmented: tests, treatments, medications. • Swirls of hair lost, restored, lost again, then restored. • Cells. Blood tests. Muscle tissue. • The alphabet of medicine – touchstones of knowledge and hope: CA-125, CBC, PET, CT, MRI. • Finally, because pictorial representations of Hope show her carrying bouquets, a path of flowers leads directly to Jennie.

MA 0016-3F-2014

Mixed Media

291

The Catcher of Our Dreams Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Pennsylvania By legend, dreamcatchers monitor our dreams. The good ones slip through and the evil ones get trapped in the web. When a cancer diagnosis enters a person’s life, sleep becomes almost extinct. Questions interrupt concentration, side effects ruin days, and dreams are ultimately shattered. Circling inside their minds are ideas. For the patient, it is “Will I survive?”; for the caregiver, “Will I be strong enough?”; and for the healthcare provider, “Will I have the cure?” After my husband’s cancer diagnosis, our dreams were tangled and weakened from treatments and side effects. To survive, it is all about hopes and dreams. My vision would be to hand out dreamcatchers to all those struggling with cancer and their dreams would be fulfilled.

PA 0027-3F-2014

292

Mixed Media

Passed Yet Always Present Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver New York Loved ones pass as time goes by… …that’s the natural cycle of life. Our memories keep our pain in check And dull the loss and strife. Even though we miss her so, We get through every day Procreation imparts a gift And her legacy is here to stay. Each time I see my nephews And embrace their beautiful sons My sister appears in my heart And her history lives on.

NY 0035-3F-2014

Mixed Media

293

Flying Over Eggshells Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver New York My mom was diagnosed with stage 4 hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer in August of 2011. Upon returning home from a tropical vacation with my dad, a lump was noticed on the side of her left eye. After a planned procedure to remove what was thought to be just a mass, more testing was done to determine the cancer diagnosis. My art shows the initial shock of life as she saw it, as we all saw it, crumpling into pieces. We were all literally “walking on eggshells,” jumping to conclusions too hastily. And then slowly, pulling the pieces together with strength and a loving support system. This includes friends, family and doctors shining a light in the mission to embrace adversity gracefully.

294

Mixed Media

NY 0036-3F-2014

We Will Fight

NJ 0037-3F-2014

Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver New Jersey From the beginning, my sister and I always said, “We will fight.” Our first fight with cancer began when our father was diagnosed and then our second began when our mother’s diagnosis followed. There was simply no other choice than to fight, together. With one devastating discussion with the oncologist, our lives changed. This painting is a representation of our stand as a family. The flower symbolizes the love we share for one another and the brass knuckles, “our fight,” to not let cancer win. Through strength and unity it can be fought. Life is uncertain, but regardless, we will face all obstacles as a family. We hope to inspire and give strength to other families faced with cancer, to never give up the fight.

Mixed Media

295

Consumed Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Texas Consumed by thoughts day and night, consumed by anger, I was consumed by fear and confusion all the time. She was consumed with nothing but the joy of existing. My grandmother was a strong Spanish woman, bold with lines defining years of struggle; but with all the purpose to exist for another sunrise, another sunset. So bold to surpass the time limit given to her, so bold to proclaim on her departure to have a full head of hair, so bold to hold my hand to tell me I’d be okay without her. Consumed I am with her… I feel her in the sunrise, in the sunset… all so bold… Consumed.

TX 0066-3F-2014

296

Mixed Media

Growth of Hope Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver New Jersey My father’s journey with cancer has been a long one. I’m the eldest of 5, and emotionally, his journey has taken a toll on every member of my family. My father’s day-to-day stability comes from his and mom’s tenacious inner strength to never give up. In my artwork, I chose to capture the pure essence of struggle and the gravity inflicted if one does not find such inner strength. And with this, grows hope, and life can push forward without fear or regrets.

NJ 0090-3F-2014

Mixed Media

297

Nature’s Guidance Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Illinois It was her first year in college when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. As a friend, I informed her of the catharsis of creating art reflecting her feelings during her cancer journey. Our relationship with animals connects us in many ways. This young lady did not survive ovarian cancer. This painting represents her connection with nature. Her uncle, who is my dogs’ veterinarian, is working with scent dogs to help with early detection of this type of cancer. Ovarian cancer often does not show early signs and there is no screening method. Some dogs are able to detect these cancer cells with great accuracy. Hopefully, we will be able to save lives when we are able to find and treat this disease with the help of dogs.

298

Mixed Media

IL 0091-3F-2014

The Most Beautiful Things Are Not Seen or Touched, But Felt with the Heart

TX 0096-3F-2014

Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Texas My Bubba passed 4½ years ago; continues to live in my heart – lots of memories. At times I send my love and kisses, update him a bit, or suddenly cry out. So thankful and blessed to have had a caring, loving, considerate yet intelligent and wise brother. Good husband and father to his family. Hard worker; great provider. Outgoing personality; made friends easily. Good character; positive; enjoyed life.

Many types of cancer; cancer’s not a respecter of age – look at children and ask, “Why?” One of the best things we can do for a family member or friend is look them in the eye and let them know how much they are appreciated and loved (with or without cancer). Ready for a cancer cure? Absolutely!

Mixed Media

299

Healing Mandala Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Connecticut When I was in fifth grade, my grandmother was diagnosed with the C-word (breast cancer). I was very close to my grandmother and she lived a long life. I don’t think she died from breast cancer but, rather, from a broken heart. She outlived two sons, my father, who died at 67 after 3 years battling liver and kidney cancer, and his brother, who died from prostate cancer a year later. We would lose another aunt and uncle from the same family to cancer. My connection to cancer has spread to my father-in-law, an aunt and uncle on my mother’s side, 6 cousins, and 6 friends. Unfortunately, my circumstances aren’t that unusual. It seems as if cancer has become a pervasive visitor to almost everyone. My hope is for a cure in my lifetime!

CT 0098-3F-2014

300

Mixed Media

Journey to Hope

IL 0153-3F-2014

Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Illinois Journey to Hope reflects the cancer journey of Danuta. The ups and downs, uncertainties and fear are reflected in the colors and fluid movement of the art medium chosen. The darks and lights came together and dried in a way in which there was unexpected movement and shifting the entire time until it completely dried. The circle that represents life and the experience of the cancer journey was shared by many individuals from doctors and nurses to family, friends and others affected by cancer. In a sense, the large circle also represents a cancer cell. In the end, the tumultuous journey brought healing and peace.

Mixed Media

301

The Elephant and the Sunflower Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Minnesota I am an art therapy intern, and a lot of the art I do has symbolism for hope and healing. I wanted to create a piece using the same kind of symbolism and use it to celebrate all the stories and lives that I have been blessed to be a part of. Each picture and quote has a meaning for every cancer patient, family member or employee who I have interacted with. The elephant is my contribution to the symbolism. Elephants are a metaphor in many cultures for strength and power. Its raised trunk holds a sunflower whose face always follows the sun. All these things are symbolic of art: it is a powerful form of expression that brings light and color to the world that it touches.

302

Mixed Media

MN 0162-3F-2014

Eyes of Hope Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Texas With me, I take him. He is engraved in my mind and imprinted on my heart. He is my God-gift, my son. When I learned of my cancer, I grieved deeply. I grieved for the things I would not see, for the memories I would not share. Yet the Spirit works in such wonderful ways. With each passing day, I appreciate more the very breath I have and the smiles of those who support and love me. There is hope, always hope. There are miracles, always miracles. And there are imprints, and these will last this lifetime and beyond. [This is my friend’s story, and I stand boldly beside her.]

TX 0186-3F-2014

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303

Louis the Lucky Elephant Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Louisiana My artwork is a happy abstract. I saw an elephant hidden in the swirls of color. I call it “Louis the Lucky Elephant.” Louis is a friend and recent survivor of tonsil cancer. He is a patient who his doctors refer to as “one rare and lucky individual.” The elephant in many cultures symbolizes good luck, determination and loyalty. The upturned trunk symbolizes the showering of good luck. The elephant is very loyal, always standing up for others and his family. Strength, honor, stability and patience are other qualities of the elephant. Louis used these positive attributes in his cancer journey. He was very proactive, always asking questions and giving strength to others by his example. Louis is the Lucky Elephant.

304

Mixed Media

LA 0193-3F-2014

The Beautiful, Wise and Wonderful

HI 0206-3F-2014

Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Hawaii I often feel my mother with me, even though she has been gone so many years. Beauty comes from the memories of her – the beautiful, wise and wonderful M. A. G. B. K.

Mixed Media

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The Big Picture – Words of Hope and Healing Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Florida The day you are told you have cancer everything changes. Your focus, your hopes and your dreams are derailed, and the only thing that matters is how you can enter the battle with this disease and come out the other end, either cured or with the best quality of life you can fashion. My own journey is still in progress, and while cure is not yet here, a very good quality of life has emerged while I wait for the final outcome.

FL 0216-3F-2014

306

Mixed Media

The Fruits of the Spirit: Love, Joy, Peace and Kindness

IN 0231-3F-2014

Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Indiana I chose to use the Lord’s symbols of the blue birds and peaceful water. I shared the meaning of the fruits of the spirit. She responded with hope and peace. My friend is in treatment for ovarian cancer. We are taught the bible verse – now abideth, faith, hope and love – but the greatest of these is love.

Mixed Media

307

Finding Feathers Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Delaware I stood crying in my driveway one icy January morning, 3 months after she died. I held in my hand a collection of feathers. Evidence of a brutal but swift end to a life. I had witnessed the hawk launch itself out of the tree, a lifeless bird locked in its talons. In my mind, cancer and the hawk were the same – snatching their prey, taking it away while we watch helplessly. Leaving us alone, feeling like we have nothing. Or so I thought. Feathers remind me that I do have more than nothing. I have what remains. Memories are like feathers, stunningly beautiful, yet delicately vulnerable. Keeping feathers reminds us of the gift of sharing someone’s life, and that remains forever.

308

Mixed Media

DE 0236-3F-2014

No One Fights Alone Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Florida On February 27, 2012, I received a call that my Mom had been taken to the hospital. By that Friday, March 2, the news came that she was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma Cancer. What is multiple myeloma? I had never heard of it. Since that time I have learned a lot and I know, right now, that I won’t hear the words that she is cancer free. Cancer is not something that anyone can go through by themselves. It takes the whole Family to work together, Faith in God that we can all weather what is to come, and Hope that someday there will be a cure. No One Fights Alone.

FL 0247-3F-2014

Mixed Media

309

Stories of Hope Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Oklahoma Stories of Hope stitches together the lives of those touched by cancer. The paintings express journeys of promise and perseverance, and each journey is carefully wrapped in prayer and love. At the center of every prayer and every thought are patients who embody HOPE. Stories of Hope is taken from the hearts and souls of survivors, fighters, caregivers and friends who have found that their journey – though rough and disappointing at times – is also full of potential and undaunted courage. As a volunteer who walks with those affected by cancer day in and day out, I find that there are never enough words to truly capture the spirit that fights cancer, but the few that are often expressed are: Belief. Possibility. Heart. Community. Adversity. HOPE.

OK 0255-3F-2014

310

Mixed Media

9th-Floor Visitor

TX 0257-3F-2014

Mixed Media by a Family Member, Friend or Caregiver Texas When my husband was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer, our world was changed instantly. Our quiet family life world expanded to include the world of doctors and labs and hospitals. But one day, as I was headed down to the cafeteria to get something to eat, this butterfly was pressed against the 9th-floor oncology ward window. It was a messenger of hope during a mind-numbing time. It reminded me to stay alert and aware for every gift of beauty, and that even in the darkest times, our own transformation is a gift.

Mixed Media

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The Journey Continues American artist Georgia O’Keeffe said, “To create one’s own world takes courage.” She also said, “Whether you succeed or not is irrelevant, there is no such thing. Making your unknown known is the important thing.”

the emotional journey of cancer—and to comfort and support others who experience their creativity on hospital walls, in print, or online. Every expression shows us the individual’s courage to create their own world in the world made by cancer.

The cancer journey is an unknown. From the moment of the diagnosis, we enter into a new world, a new normal. Georgia O’Keeffe was talking about the journey of the artist to make art, but she could have been talking about the journey of making meaning when a life is being shaped by cancer.

Creativity can take many forms and is limited only by our imagination. A painting by a caregiver might inspire you to pick up a brush and paint your feelings when words aren’t enough. A photograph by a cancer survivor may give you the courage to capture your black-and-white moment that communicates a lifetime of love. Or maybe the search for meaning will begin in a poem, a quilt, or a song. If you aren’t sure where to begin, the following “creativity starters” may help:

Each cancer experience is as individual as a fingerprint, but all share a common need for emotional support through the journey of unknowns. Although art therapy has been used in many ways to support healing experiences for a number of illnesses and traumas, the powerful impact it can have on people touched by cancer has only recently been studied. • In 2006, the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management published a study evaluating the effects of a 1-hour art therapy session for 50 adult cancer patients. The study reported “statistically significant reductions in eight of nine symptoms measured by the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS)” and provided “beginning evidence for the efficacy of art therapy in reducing a broad spectrum of symptoms” among cancer patients1 • In 2007, a study of oncologists and oncology nurses reported that art therapy could effectively treat burnout syndrome 2 • In 2013, the Journal of the American Medical Association: Internal Medicine published a review of 27 studies of more than 1,500 patients and concluded that art therapy can alleviate symptoms of pain, anxiety, and depression and improve overall quality of life 3 The book that you hold in your hands (or are viewing online) can be a powerful tool for you or for someone in your care. In the 10 years since Lilly Oncology On Canvas began, more than 133,000 books like this one have been distributed, dozens of cancer clinics have exhibited art to improve the healthcare environment, and several formalized art therapy programs have been inspired into being. The stories and expressions of Oncology On CanvasSM have helped the contributing artists to navigate

• Make a journal with pictures instead of words • Choose colors to represent your feelings and paint, draw, or scribble until you feel you are done • Illustrate a quote that inspires you • Find a familiar subject, like a pet, and create a portrait by imitating the technique or style of an artist you admire • Make a collage using images and found objects • Write continuously for 10 minutes without stopping and without worrying about punctuation • Find an image in this book and recreate it for yourself using colors of your own choosing Remember: Whether you succeed or not is irrelevant…making your unknown known is the important thing. Every year, 14 million people will begin their cancer journey, millions more will be by their side to care for them—and all of us touched by cancer will need the support and inspiration to find our way on the cancer journey. We hope this collection of art and narrative helps you or someone you love—and we hope you will be inspired to share your creative expression of the cancer journey so that your story can be a part of the movement to hope forward for all cancer survivors.

1. Nainis N, Paice JA, Ratner J, Wirth JH, Lai J, Shott S. J Pain Symptom Manage 2006;31:162-169. 2. Italia S, Favara-Scacco C, Di Cataldo A, Russo G. Psychooncology 2008;17:676-680. 3. Puetz TW, Morley CA, Herring MP. JAMA Intern Med 2013;173:960-969.

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www.LillyOncologyOnCanvas.com ON95467 03/2015 PRINTED IN USA © Lilly USA, LLC 2015. All rights reserved. Printed on post-consumer recycled paper.