2014 Lilly Oncology on Canvas Art Exhibit

I was diagnosed with cancer on September 2004. Cancer has so many levels of emotions. In 2008 I started creating and participating in the Lilly Oncology on Canvas Art Exhibit. I found a cathartic peaceful feeling while creating my cancer journey through art.  It released the pent up emotions I kept inside.

When Lilly Oncology posted their prospectus for their 2014 exhibit, I wasn't sure if I was going to enter a piece because I was busy with other projects.  It was after thinking of all the people that made a difference in my cancer journey, that gave me hope through their healthcare or their love, that I was inspired to paint a piece titled "Visions of Hope."

Shortly after the celebrations and creations of my 2010 artwork into one of Lilly Oncology on Canvas's 10 murals in 10 cities at Fox Chase Cancer Center, that I received another call from Anita Chernewski and Denise Da Costa, of TogaRun, that my artwork titled "Visions of Hope" won overall first place in the Lilly Oncology on Canvas 2014 Art Competition. 

I didn't know what to say, the emotions were so deep, I was stunned. I cried in disbelief and joy. I was rendered speechless. It was truly an awe moment, an unbelievable honor.  Part of the award bestowed upon me was partaking in painting of the New York City Mural of Hope at Grand Central Station and being interviewed by the Lilly Oncology on Canvas organization, The Cure Magazine and The Pink Slip website.  An award dinner at Capital Grill was the perfect setting when they presented me with a beautiful plaque of my artwork. Also, Lilly Oncology on Canvas gave a large substantial sum of money to be donated to my charity of choice.  It was an unforgettable event, one I will always treasure in my memory and heart.  I will always feel indebted to Lilly for giving me an avenue to tell my cancer journey through art. 

I could never imagine celebrate my 10 year anniversary of being cancer free in such a celebratory fashion.  I feel so lucky to have had the amazing support of so many during and after my cancer journey, but especially the support of my husband. I could not have survived and fought the way I did, if he had not been by my side every step of the way.

Cancer does not define me, but it definitely shaped my life to where I am today.  "Out of the storm, beauty formed."