Art Therapy Supports Cancer Patient and Inspires Hospice Exhibition

Wendy Brookfield reported experiencing a range of emotions following her pancreatic cancer diagnosis. However, a referral to art therapy provided by the Severn Hospice, located in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, assisted her in processing her situation. She commented, “There is so much going on in your mind that being able to go along to art therapy, I could just get it out and get it down on paper.” Ms. Brookfield described it as “such a good outlet for me.” These therapy sessions prompted her to begin a sketch book, which she consistently updated, at times even during her treatment. Her artistic endeavors subsequently motivated the hospice to organize its own art exhibition, featuring Ms. Brookfield’s creations alongside other works by patients. Ms. Brookfield commented, “I’ve just found it gives me so much positivity and I kind of want to share that with people.” Rebecca Richardson, the director of care, added, “As a hospice, we are kind of scary to people.” She further explained, “People think it is a place where people come to die and actually we do so much more. And we really want to connect with our communities.” The exhibition, which commenced on November 4, also served as an opportunity for the hospice, which incurs annual operating costs of approximately £10 million, to generate essential funds. Local artists were invited to sell their artwork, with all proceeds benefiting the hospice. Among these artists was Karen Worrall, who, in addition to painting in her leisure time, volunteers by conducting art therapy sessions. She stated that she was motivated to contribute after witnessing the care her father received from Severn Hospice. Ms. Worrall remarked, “Near the end we had great support from the hospice.” She continued, “I love art so I thought, right, I’ll approach our lovely art therapists and see if I can help.” She also noted, “When you paint, it is very mindful so you are in that moment and you can forget anything that is going on.” Ms. Brookfield expressed her astonishment at the exhibition. She stated, “A diagnosis is bad news, and it is a thing that so many people have to face. But if you can find good things to bring through that as well, it brings such an addition to your life.” For more updates, follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.