THE Creative Express art therapy group for women with a breast cancer diagnosis has marked a major milestone, celebrating its 150th official class at Mater Redlands.
Coordinator and founder Clancy Follett said she was humbled to receive positive feedback on the initiative from group members and from General Manager of Mater Redlands Chris Junge, surgeon Jason Lambley, and breast care nurses Janice Butler and Jenny Cattarossi.
Ms Follett started the group in 2010 while undergoing her own treatment for breast cancer.
“I attended the Look Good Feel Better program and saw how beneficial it was to interact with other patients at our level and at various stages of treatment,” she said.
“We shared information that we’d gleaned and shared experiences that had happened to us or even avoided.
“Because the discussion was incidental, it was less confronting than a sit-down formal session.
“It was also lovely to rip off the head gear and reveal our baldness in like-company.
“We giggled and laughed which is such good medicine.”
Ms Follett said she also wanted to give back to Mater Chicks in Pink for their support.
“I thought if I could do some artwork for them to sell, they could replenish their funds,” she said.
“Meanwhile, during my visits to various hospitals throughout my treatment, I saw plenty of walls which were just crying out for artwork and colour that would make anyone feel less miserable.”
Ms Follett was supported to create the program by Sherri Freese and breast care nurse Jenny Cattarossi.
Since its inception, the group has supported hundreds of women and raised $80,000 for Chicks in Pink.
Ms Butler said art therapy was a powerful tool for healing and emotional support.
“The group has been a great source of support through the stages of diagnosis, treatment and recovery,” she said.
Ms Butler said Ms Follett’s patience, compassion and skill had helped women tap into their own strength and peace.
“Clancy has the capacity to make a profound difference,” she said.
Mr Junge said Ms Follett offered a fantastic community service that was unique and always supportive.
