Public invited to attend unveiling of artwork created by local cancer survivors, loved ones

From the day of diagnosis to the relief of remission, every cancer survivor experiences a unique journey of highs and lows, tears and triumphs. What would a single image capturing that experience look like?

On November 11, 2010, the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute will display the answer to this question with the unveiling of a one-of-a-kind art display featuring replications of ceramic tiles painted by local cancer survivors, their friends, families, and caregivers. With an atmosphere of hope and celebration, the new display will make its debut at “Tiles: From Tears to Triumph” a community gathering at John Heinz Institute of Rehabilitation (150 Mundy Street, Wilkes-Barre).

The event, which will run from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., will feature stories of survivorship, live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. It is open to the public and tickets are $50. All proceeds from the event will support Cancer Institute programming and research to ease the burden of cancer in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

To make reservations, please contact the Cancer Institute at 1-800-424-6724 or visit www.cancernepa.org. Space is limited, so individuals are encouraged to RSVP prior to November 4th.

To correspond with the unveiling event, the Cancer Institute is looking for Luzerne County residents who painted tiles as part of the art therapy program at the Cancer Institute and who are willing to share the stories of their experiences with cancer. If you are interested in participating, please contact Christine Zavaskas at the Cancer Institute by calling 1-800-424-6724.

Tiles: From Tears of Triumph Comimitteee

Pictured are members of the planning committee for “Tiles: From Tears to Triumph.” From left, Jill Kryston; Anna Cervenak; Rebecca Ruckno, Committee Co-Chair; Mary Erwine; Susan Kolesar; Cynthia Glawe Mailloux; and Rachel Borgna, Zebra Communications. Not pictured are Shawn Murphy, Committee Co-Chair; Elly Miller; Pat Finan Castellano; Ruth Ann Taylor; Sherry Huntzinger; and Janet Flack.