If you have been following my monthly editorials, by now you know that weSPARK is a nonprofit cancer support center whose mission is to enhance the quality of life for cancer patients and their families and friends. In addition to our support groups, we have many complementary and healing classes that are helpful with decreasing anxiety and depression and improving the immune system. One of the classes we offer on a monthly basis is jewelry making. Facilitated by the artistic and lovely Holly, this class is creative and fun.
When daily life is so demanding, it is good for us to do something we enjoy. Our cancer patients often have a difficult journey. Going through treatment and waiting for test results is stressful. Jeanne, one of our weSPARK guests, says, “I look forward to jewelry making at weSPARK each month. Holly, the instructor is knowledgeable and patient. I love looking over the incredible selection of beads, shells and stones and creating the perfect necklace, bracelet or earrings just for me.” Concentrating on selecting and stringing beads together keeps our guests out of the “bad neighborhood” and worry of their minds and gives them an hour or two of enjoyment. Plus, at the end of the class, they get to walk away with a beautiful object that they made themselves.
Another weSPARK guest, Roshan adds, “Jewelry making gives me a feeling of creativity and accomplishment. I also appreciate the different experiences other guests bring with them. It inspires me to create something special and memorialize it to each session. It does bring value to my life and I am sure it does the same for other guests who participate. The other day I got a compliment on a necklace I had made at the last class, it made me feel so positive about myself, restoring my faith to continue.”
For many cancer patients, life can sometimes feel out of control. Even though our guests are very proactive, once in a while they may have feelings of powerlessness over their situations. Doing something creative that produces a positive outcome restores their hope and reminds them that, even in the midst of their trials and tribulations, there is always something joyful for them as well.
Please call weSPARK at 661-288-2322 if you would like information about our free support groups and healing classes. A short meeting is required before participation in our programming.