Free Art Therapy for People Dealing with Cancer

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When my sister Gianna was going through treatment for ovarian cancer, she often performed a self-care act she called “museum therapy.” She would take herself to a favorite museum and bask in the healing presence of art.

As an artist and museum professional, Gianna knew in her body and soul what the research confirms: art—being around it and creating it—can help heal the parts of a cancer experience that medicine can’t touch.

Flashback.

When Gia was first diagnosed and we all were figuring out what that meant, what to do, how to deal—a wonderful coincidence happened.

Some friends here in Minneapolis/St. Paul contacted me: “Hey, we’re trying to establish a Gilda’s Club in the Twin Cities, wanna help?” I was familiar with Gilda’s Clubs—cancer support organizations named after original SNL cast member, Gilda Radner.

Gia loved Gilda. We loved Gilda. And, while I didn’t fully realize it at the time, I needed people to talk with about this whole cancer thing. The timing was amazing. I was in.

Flash forward.

We made Gilda’s Club Twin Cities HAPPEN in 2014 and I’ve been volunteering with them ever since. I’ve seen what FREE emotional and social support, including art therapy activities, can mean to anyone—individuals, families, caregivers, coworkers, anyone—touched by any kind of cancer.

This year—the 15th anniversary of Gianna’s exit—I’m proud to say that Gilda’s Club Twin Cities is celebrating its 10th anniversary by becoming Gilda’s Club MINNESOTA, offering free support to anyone who’s dealing with cancer, anywhere in the state.

So, here’s my pitch: let’s fund additional art therapy activities at Gilda’s Club with a financial gift in honor of Gianna.

The main activity we’ll fund? Museum Therapy! Folks dealing with cancer will visit local museums—including the Charles M. Schulz exhibit that’s here in the Twin Cities through July 2024. (Those of you who knew Gianna understand that perfect coincidence.)

Money you donate will also go toward virtual art activities to outstate communities, art supplies, new frames to feature members’ art, costs related to art therapy facilitators, visiting artists and more.

In the coming weeks I’ll post videos with more information about Gianna, Gilda’s Club Minnesota and its amazing art therapy program. I’m setting the initial goal at $2,500 but would love to blow that up so that we can bring art therapy to the many people feeling the impact of a cancer diagnosis.

Thanks.

P.S. There was a scholarship set up in Gianna’s name at JFK University years ago but it closed when the Museum Studies program was cut. Since then, I’ve been looking for another opportunity to honor her memory and legacy.