Funded and Facilitated by El Paso Children’s Hospital Foundation
At the El Paso Children’s Hospital Foundation, we understand that healing goes beyond physical treatment. That’s why the Healing Arts Program is an integral part of the pediatric care continuum at El Paso Children’s Hospital, significantly enhancing the lives of children and their families by making their hospital experience comforting and uplifting.
What is the Healing Arts Program?
Entirely funded through the El Paso Children’s Hospital Foundation, the Healing Arts Program provides comfort, inspiration, and emotional support for children undergoing treatment for cancer and other serious illnesses. This transformative program turns the hospital environment into a space filled with hope, creativity, and healing by integrating a wide range of art forms into the care experience.
Children engage in multiple creative outlets that nurture emotional well-being, encourage self-expression, and bring moments of joy and peace to an otherwise challenging journey. From visual arts and musical arts to theater arts and literary arts, each form of art plays a unique role in supporting the mental, emotional, and physical health of young patients.
Art Forms in the Healing Arts Program
- Visual Arts: Drawing, painting, sculpture, and interactive art projects allow children to create their own masterpieces, turning their emotions into tangible works of beauty and meaning.
- Musical Arts: Live music performances, music therapy, and interactive musical experiences bring the soothing power of sound into patient rooms and shared spaces.
- Theater Arts: Storytelling, role-play, and interactive theatrical activities spark imagination, boost self-esteem, and provide children with an outlet for emotional expression.
- Literary Arts: Poetry, storytelling, and creative writing sessions give children a voice to share their personal journeys and reflect on their experiences.
- Dance and Movement Arts: Gentle movement-based activities reduce anxiety, promote physical wellness, and help children feel more connected to their bodies during treatment.
How the Healing Arts Program Benefits Patients
Art is more than a creative outlet—it’s a powerful tool for healing and well-being. Through the Healing Arts Program, we provide children and their families with meaningful experiences that bring joy, reduce stress, and promote overall wellness.
Key Benefits
- Reduce Stress: Engaging in art, music, dance, and theater activities helps children and their families alleviate anxiety and stress during medical treatments.
- Enhance Emotional Health: The safe, nurturing environment of the program allows children to process their emotions and express themselves in ways words alone cannot achieve.
- Support Recovery: Research shows that participation in the arts leads to better physical recovery outcomes, improved mental well-being, and higher patient satisfaction.
- Build Resilience: By exploring creative expression, children build emotional strength and develop skills to navigate their medical journey with greater confidence.
The artwork, music, and stories created by these young patients are nothing short of extraordinary. Guided by caring professionals and fueled by their unique experiences, children turn their creative lessons into stunning expressions of hope, courage, and strength that inspire caregivers, families, and visitors alike.
The Healing Arts Program is made possible entirely through the generous support of the community. Every donation helps fund the Healing Arts Program. You can help us bring comfort and hope to children and families at El Paso Children’s Hospital. The Healing Arts Program is more than just art; it’s a lifeline of support for children and their families. By combining creativity with care, we’re making the hospital experience less stressful and more inspiring for everyone.
For more information about the Healing Arts Program or ways to get involved please contact Brittany Anchondo at (915) 521-7229, Ext. 80549 or email her at Brittany.Anchondo@umcelpaso.org
