ArtWorks for Cancer Donation Builds on Previous Partnership with the DRCC

Patients and their family members/essential partners-in-care coming to the R.S. McLaughlin Durham Regional Cancer Centre (DRCC) will now encounter a more welcoming and calmer environment, thanks to a recent donation from the organization, ArtWorks for Cancer (AWFC).

“AWFC is a not-for-profit foundation whose mission is to bring works of art to cancer treatment units in hospitals across Ontario,” explained Caroline Murphy, Collections Manager at AWFC. “Our goal is to transform clinical areas into warm, hopeful, and healing spaces for patients, their families, and health-care providers.”

As a former patient of the DRCC and now a Patient and Family Advisor (PFA) for the DRCC, Connie Bell appreciates the impact of the artwork.

“When you’re receiving cancer treatment, you often don’t know what’s coming and even if you do, a calming environment can be so important,” explained Connie.

“We first partnered with AWFC in 2019 on the selection, design, and installation of artwork in the DRCC and it’s truly improved the experience for our patients, families, volunteers, and staff,” said Patti Marchand, Director, DRCC.

Patti explained that “the entire process of choosing the artwork has been very collaborative. AWFC worked with staff from the DRCC and our PFAs to decide what pieces would have the most positive impact for patients receiving care.”

This feedback included choosing which artwork would go best in which space. “The artwork gives this space a more home-like feel,” added Darla Sells, PFA, who also received care at the DRCC.

For more information about ArtWorks for Cancer, visit their website.