Marian Cancer Care Services center has developed a new way to reach the hearts of its patients. “The Healing Hour” is a newly founded support program with an aim to help members learn how to focus their thoughts—and thereby reduce their stress levels.
The support program rotates around four topics: poetry, art, journaling, and laughter. Instructors with expertise in each unique area of self-expression will lead the sessions. Shirley Willingham, a local artist, instructs the art section for cancer patients and survivors.
“I paint because it makes me feel good, but I instruct the art portion of Marian’s Healing Hour because I want to share with others what I have been through,” Willingham said.
She’s a two-time cancer survivor and a motivational leader to the Healing Hour support group.
“After surviving both colon and breast cancer, my motto is to never give up,” she said.
“This group is great fun,” said Chrys Brunger, a Healing Hour member and 25-year cancer survivor. “Not only are we learning, but we have the moral support of each other in a positive and uplifting atmosphere.”
The Healing Hour meets every third Tuesday of the month from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Marian Hancock Building’s third floor conference room.
For more information, contact Marian Cancer Care Services at 739-3780.
Intern Gabby Hendriksen compiled this week’s Community Corner. Send comments or ideas to the Sun via e-mail at intern@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Apr 30 – May 7, 2009.