Hundreds gather for art therapy at UH Cancer Center

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Nearly 200 cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, family members, health care providers and supporters gathered to explore how those affected by cancer can use art to express healing, resilience and well-being.

Read more Nearly 150 guns turned in during Hawaii Island buyback event

The “Healing Through Art” workshop took place Saturday at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center from 9 to 11 a.m., hosted by the center’s Sunsan C. Hirano Cancer CARE Community (Community, Awareness, Research and Emotional Well-Being).

The workshop featured practitioners representing a variety of cultural and artistic traditions and therapeutic approaches, with haiku reflection and meditation, music, visual arts, lei-making and crafting activities.

Leni Acosta Knight, one of three artists featured at the event and a cancer survivor herself, talked about her own experience of releasing her emotions through art while battling cancer.

Read more E-motorcyclist critically injured in Makiki crash

“Art doesn’t really erase your pain, but it gives you the sanctuary to go in and express your feelings and emotions without any judgment,” she said. “As a cancer survivor, I know what it’s like to go through fear, pain and anxiety. Today was a lot of laughter, a lot of tears, but mostly a lot of laughter.”

Saturday’s event was a part of a quarterly series of events at the UH Cancer Center.

Their next event, focusing more on physical activity, will take place in October.

Read more First Alert Forecast: sunshine with moderate trades today, lighter tomorrow