A Picture of Hope and Healing
The Pap Corps Champions for Cancer Research’s Art in the Park – A Gallery of Hope raised funds to support Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
The Pap Corps Champions for Cancer Research members tapped into their artistic and altruistic talents at Art in the Park – A Gallery of Hope.
The non-profit’s new signature event supports innovative research at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
Since its founding in 1952, The Pap Corps has donated more than $110 million to cancer research. With a historic $50 million pledge in 2016, the organization solidified its position as one of Sylvester’s longest and most generous supporters. Those funds are all garnered through grassroots programs such as Art in the Park – A Gallery of Hope.
Hope is the Perfect Word
According to Susan Dinter, chair of The Pap Corps Board of Directors, the event name has a significant meaning.
“Hope is the perfect word,” said Dinter. “There doesn’t seem to be a better word to describe what we are working towards through cancer research to give more people hope.”
In speaking of the importance of hope, Dinter told attendees about a beautiful piece of artwork created by cancer patients as part of an art therapy program and presented to The Pap Corps by Sylvester. She shared a story told to her by Ingrid Barrera, Psy.D., assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Miller School and Sylvester Cancer Survivorship and Supportive Care director, of how, while working together on this painting, the patients often spoke about their journey and the hope they have during this challenging time.
Supporting the Future of Cancer Care
With financial support from The Pap Corps, Sylvester’s physician-scientists are finding success in discovering novel treatments and potential cures for cancer.
“There are 18 million survivors of cancer now,” said Sylvester Director Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., who is also the Oscar de la Renta Endowed Chair in Cancer Research and executive dean for research at the Miller School of Medicine. “That means that fully 5% of Americans are cancer survivors, which is an unprecedented number. Thanks to our partnership with The Pap Corps, we are building on these advances. You strengthen our resolve to advance innovative discoveries in cancer research and offer the best treatment options for our patients.”
Sally Berenzweig, chief executive officer of The Pap Corps, also spoke of the importance of this partnership and philanthropic giving.
“You have the power to change lives and create a lasting legacy of hope,” said Berenzweig. “Finding a cure for cancer is not just a dream. It is a tangible possibility. Today, as we unite not just in awareness but in action, with our donations, we can drive innovation, cultivate new treatments and move towards a world free of cancer.”
Power of the Paintbrush
One of the highlights of Art in the Park – A Gallery of Hope was Strokes for Hope, a unique opportunity to collaborate on artwork with internationally renowned artist Salvatore Principe.
Attendees were invited to pick up a paintbrush and add a paint stroke to a blank canvas to create a stunning backdrop for Principe to add his signature heart imagery. The piece was included in the live auction and purchased by Dinter and her husband, Ed, who donated it to be hung at the Sylvester campus to inspire hope and bring joy to all who encounter it.
This project complements Sylvester’s Art is Medicine program, which focuses on the therapeutic power of art as part of Sylvester’s commitment to whole-body healing. A gallery in Sylvester’s lobby features a compilation of works by artists representing the continuum of care: patients, faculty, staff, families, cancer survivors and members of the local community.
The newest installation features a collection of nature photography from the Everglades to Brazil. Research has shown that images of nature can reduce stress and elevate a person’s mood.
A Signature Success
Art in the Park – A Gallery of Hope took place Feb. 18 at Broken Sound Country Club in Boca Raton, Fla. Beverly Berkowitz and Joyce Brett chaired the event. It featured a three-course luncheon, live entertainment, an art exhibition featuring almost 40 pieces of artwork of various mediums created by Pap Corps members and a live auction.
Tags: cancer research, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Pap Corps Champions for Cancer Research