In recognition of September as Childhood Cancer, Sickle Cell Disease, Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) and Histiocytosis Awareness Month, The Periwinkle Foundation is launching a month-long series of stories, articles, engagement opportunities and posts. Follow along on Periwinkle’s Facebook and Instagram for daily features highlighting these life-threatening illnesses, and the ways in which Periwinkle provides a community of healing for children and families cared for at Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers.

Each week during the month, we’ll highlight a Periwinkle program area and the ways in which Periwinkle children and families engage in the Periwinkle community of healing. This week’s focus is the Periwinkle Arts In Medicine Program at Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers.

To get us started, today’s edition of Make it a Splendid Week gives a sneak peek to one of the 124 art and creative writing pieces launching tomorrow in the Making A Mark® virtual exhibit. Stay tuned for ways to view the entire exhibit, and opportunities to connect directly with the artists through writing a virtual Postcard from the Road. Make it a Splendid Week!

The mission of the Periwinkle Arts In Medicine Program at Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers is to provide enjoyable and educational art activities which give children, young adults, families and caregivers affected by pediatric cancer and blood disorders the opportunity for self-expression, empowerment and healing through the arts.

Art encourages self-expression, and it is particularly helpful to relieve stress in children who are undergoing chemotherapy treatment or blood transfusions. Making music, singing songs, performing dance, watching plays, writing poetry, and creating visual art, is an important part of the healing process. The availability of artistic opportunities in healthcare settings, sometimes called ‘arts in healthcare,’ can be a vital resource in helping patients to cope with an acute illness. Art and healthcare go hand-in-hand because art enhances the healing environment and treatment experience.

Art is the Weapon

Art is not meant to be understood.
It is something anyone can do.

Art is exaggerated to be questioned.
It is not something people mention.

Art gives voice to stories that can’t be told.
It is the soul that speaks for the lost and bold.

Art is passionate and odd.
It is overwhelming creating emotions thawed.

Display your spirit and make it live.

“Art is the weapon, run with it,
Create and destroy as you see fit.”
Frank Iero

– Jailyne, age 20

This entry is a part of our series “Make it a Splendid Week”! Follow along weekly to enjoy excerpts from The Splendid Review, an anthology of poems, short stories and autobiographies written by talented young writers engaged in the Periwinkle Arts In Medicine Program at Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers.