Teenage cancer survivor to head art CHOC initiative
The initiative aims to have artists donate their paintings to be sold in an attempt to raise funds towards all kinds of cancer treatments and research.
An art initiative was established by a bright and brave young girl to raise funds for cancer research and treatment for CHOC (Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa).
The Paint Against Cancer initiative was established by 16-year-old Tharuna Marimuthu, a survivor of Osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, after she was diagnosed and treated at Netcare Unitas hospital recently.
The initiative aims to have artists donate their paintings to be sold in an attempt to raise funds towards all kinds of cancer treatments.
“Two years ago at the age of 14, my entire life changed. I was diagnosed with cancer as a child. Today I’m in remission after receiving 19 rounds of chemotherapy, six before surgery and 13 rounds after,” said Marimuthu.
She received a full knee and femur replacement, many blood and platelet transfusions and some neupogen injections to get her blood counts up.
“When I was first diagnosed and started chemo, I was extremely anxious and everything was overwhelming for me. Each chemo cycle lasted three weeks, which meant a lot of my time was spent in hospital.
“On one of the days that I was in hospital, a special lady from Cansa (Cancer Association South Africa) had come to paint with me. I found therapy in painting from that very day. Painting had become my escape from all that was going on in my life. It was a very relaxing activity that I did when I couldn’t do much,” she explained.
“I walked into this journey knowing very little about what was ahead. Throughout my journey I had met so many inspiring people that helped me get through this, especially the doctors and nurses. I’ve made so many incredible friends who shared the same journey as me. During this time, I’ve discovered myself and I’ve learnt so many valuable life lessons.
“For me, painting was my escape. With this I would like to give hope to all brave warriors fighting this battle,” she said.
If you are an artist and would like to offer your services or products to this cause, feel free to contact the CHOC foundation.
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