Cancer survivors, their families, and caregivers recently gathered in Morton Grove to spread a message of hope. On July 8, City of Hope Cancer Center Chicago unveiled its Artistic Expressions of Hope at its North Shore Center in Morton Grove. This center is located at 9300 Waukegan Road and is part of the sole cancer-focused hospital system in the area.
The chalk art initiative, Artistic Expressions of Hope, aims to honor the journey of the two million Americans diagnosed with cancer each year. It also highlights the therapeutic benefits of creative arts for cancer patients. During the event, local artists who have been touched by cancer created live street art.
According to City of Hope Chicago president, Pete Govorchin, these installations honor the resilience of survivors and uplift the human spirit, offering patients and families a reminder that they are not alone. Artist Ebony Sade created a piece dedicated to her aunt, who battled breast and endometrial cancer. Her artwork includes two intertwined ribbons and 36 butterflies, symbolizing her aunt’s 36 treatments, with praying hands at the center to honor her aunt’s faith.
The Morton Grove event was the beginning of the Artistic Expressions of Hope series, held at various City of Hope Cancer Centers in the Chicagoland area from July 8 to July 11. Govorchin noted that this initiative comes at a pivotal time, as cancer survival rates increase. Currently, 70% of diagnosed Americans survive at least five years. As survival rates improve, there is an increasing need to support the emotional well-being of those affected by cancer.
Research indicates that creative arts therapies can significantly alleviate anxiety and depression, enhancing the overall quality of life for cancer survivors. At City of Hope, the focus is on treating the whole person, and this initiative visually represents that commitment.
Valerie Suchor, a cancer patient from Skokie, attended the event. As part of her treatment, she underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Suchor shared that painting provides solace, helping her to channel her focus away from worry and into creating something positive.
Dr. Marlon Kleinman, a hematologist-oncologist at City of Hope Cancer Center North Shore, emphasized the emotional impact of cancer beyond the physical illness. He explained that art allows for emotional expression when words fall short, serving as a tool for emotional reclamation and coping with uncertainty.