Children diagnosed with cancer exhibit their artwork at Capitol

During art classes at the Puerto Rico Children’s Hospital, the children and young people undergoing treatment for cancer not only created art but also expressed their emotions.

By THE STAR STAFF

A unique exhibition of 15 works of art created by pediatric oncology patients while undergoing treatment is now open at the island Capitol.

“It fills me with great pride to announce the opening in the House of Representatives of this exhibition of artwork on canvas, created by children diagnosed with cancer while receiving treatment at the hospital,” Speaker of the Puerto Rico House of Representatives Carlos “Johnny” Méndez Nuñez said earlier this week. “This space, ‘Fragments of Life,’ demonstrates that no matter where we are, there is always hope. These children, who fight for their lives every day, have taken the time to express their emotions through art, and this demonstrates the tenacity they have in their treatment and their unwavering desire for a speedy recovery. We will always support them here.”

The exhibition, which opened Tuesday afternoon in the José Tous Soto room on the basement level of the Capitol, features pieces made using the mosaic technique with the caps from the vials of injectable medications -- including chemotherapy -- administered to the pediatric patients.

The art project is an initiative of the Puerto Rico Children’s Hospital, in collaboration with the school program of the Puerto Rico Children’s Foundation, which involved the entire hospital community in collecting the materials, generating a spirit of community that goes beyond art.

During art classes at the hospital, the children and young people not only created art but also expressed their emotions.

The works on display are by children Abdiel Ortiz (RIP), Adiel Meléndez, Arlette Díaz, Claudia Rosado (RIP), Drek A. Díaz, Jexandel X. Murphy, Jorge Padilla, Katsyliani Dávila, Lyam Vargas, Maryangeliz Rodríguez, Miangelee V. Maldonado, Myrnelis Ortiz, Yedriel Atanacio and Orlando Flores, among others.

They were guided by Prof. Raysa M. Saldaña. For 30 years, the Puerto Rico Children’s Foundation has been providing access to healthcare services for children and young people, from newborns to 21-year-olds, who have been diagnosed with cancer, birth defects or chronic conditions. The foundation covers medical services not covered by their health insurance, thus contributing to improving their quality of life, development and overall well-being.

The Foundation currently serves more than 1,800 children.