To celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a unique mobile entertainment company, Paint’d Party Services, decided to help bring some joy to cancer survivors by donating painting kits, an item used frequently by the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute’s Healing Arts Program.
“Donations like these are instrumental in making sure we can help create joy in the lives of cancer survivors,” said Greg Cascione, Ph.D., philanthropy officer at Karmanos. “Being able to provide these activities and experiences at Karmanos is something we’re very proud of.”
Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, Paint’d Party Services had the idea of bringing people together through art. With two buses on the road, they are the only organization of their kind in Michigan. They service schools, organizations, and private parties, providing a space for individuals to unleash their creativity and connect with one another.
While alongside her friend’s battle with cancer, Lashay Heard, owner and lead paint instructor at Paint’d Party Services, learned that painting could be a powerful release for those going through hardship. The group then had the idea to spread that joy to others going through similar journeys in the best way they knew how.
“My friend has been battling cancer for a minute, and I’ve had the honor of being alongside her during her journey. Sometimes, when I’ve been with her, she just needed something to do,” said Heard. “From my experience with this, I knew that painting could be a great release.”
In a generous gesture, the team chose to donate painting kits to Karmanos for the Healing Arts Program, hoping to uplift the spirits of those going through their cancer journey.
“We just hope the patients and caregivers are able to use them and have fun,” said Heard. “If they like them and want more, we’d be happy to help.”
Learn about other ways to host a fundraiser or donate to Karmanos here.