Unlike usual, the Psychosocial Support through Art Therapy session for children with cancer on September 16 began with a gentle story, reminding us that each of us has a place where we feel comfortable, safe, and free to be ourselves.
Inspired by the story, each child chose an animal to represent themselves and created their own “safe space” in their own way. Some made a cozy little box filled with yarn and cotton. Others drew a familiar home or garden. Each space looked different because what makes us feel safe and at peace can be different for everyone.
For Bao, that safe space came to life in a drawing of herself holding a bouquet of flowers for her mother. The drawing was not only something she wanted to create, but also became a gift for her mom at the end of the session. Perhaps for Bao, as for many children, the safest place is simply wherever Mom is.
We hope the “safe spaces” the children created with their own hands will stay with them as a reminder of the people and resources that support them, giving them strength throughout a challenging treatment journey.
KARE sincerely thanks Belgo – Belgian Craft Beer Brewery for not only supporting treatment costs, but also giving their time, effort, and care to create a space where the children could be creative, feel heard, and freely express the things they wanted to say. KARE would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to our professional partner, Ms. Nguyen Huong Linh, MPS Art Therapy, for bringing her expertise, care, and dedication to supporting the children throughout their journey.
