Every month, Kits to Heart features our volunteers and the voices of those affected by cancer. This month, we are excited to share three brief stories from Elizabeth, a breast cancer survivor who has been a returning participant of our Art for Cancer Wellness Program; Suha, a high school volunteer; and Jennifer, a thyroid cancer survivor and volunteer. The stories submitted are edited for format only, to keep the integrity and voice of each supporter. We've love to hear from you, too! Submit your story for a chance to be featured in an upcoming spotlight.
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Elizabeth Ahmann
"I was diagnosed with breast cancer in late summer 2022 and had a double mastectomy in October 2022. I find art to be a helpful way to process emotions and experiences and had previously done SoulCollage® and was a trained facilitator myself. I was thrilled to participate in a Kits to Heart SoulCollage® workshop with other women. I was also happy to give back by making origami birds to include in kits that you put together for others!"
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Suha Kim
"Ambitious teenager full of dreams who moved to the US a few years ago. Ever since I moved here from Korea, everything was a competition. I had to work harder and be smarter than yesterday. I first met Kits to Heart when I was searching for service hours. After hours of making cards, drawing pictures, and writing letters, I felt proud and excited for my work.
Happiness of getting an A didn’t stay longer in my heart than making a card full of support and hope. The cards and origamis I make might not be perfect but remembering the fact that I can support someone in this world not only makes me proud of myself but also amazes me how I can bring out someone’s happiness. Thank you for Kits to Heart for opening up this grateful opportunity!"
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Jennifer Munoz
"I started volunteering at Kits to Heart with my daughter. What started off as something to do on Saturday mornings, while my daughter made SSL hours, has now turned into an activity I enjoy. Knowing that the kits we help to assemble, reach people in need of support and kindness, fills my heart.
I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2020 and this year I have fully removed my thyroid glands. I do not know what the future will bring as far as treatments, but I am grateful for organizations such as this one. It offers me the space to be creative!
I make handwritten letters, origami, and crochet hearts. I am happy to be part of this community of people (of all ages), working together for such an important cause."
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We are so grateful for our community of survivors and volunteers! Learn more about how you can volunteer, join our Art for Cancer Wellness workshops, and make a tax-deductible donation today!