Lakeland, FL —The Imperial Polk Chapter of the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS), an organization devoted to promoting excellence in the nursing profession and the field of cancer care, recently awarded $1,000 to the Watson Clinic Foundation’s Arts in Medicine (AIM) program.
Housed in the Watson Clinic Cancer & Research Center, AIM stresses the therapeutic benefits of art activities for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Engagement in the arts – whether as a participant or an observer – can assist patients in regaining a sense of control over their fear and anxiety, and fosters an environment that encourages healing and supports the work of medical professionals.
The donation was presented to the AIM program on January 18 by Johnsie Mcalister, the President of the Imperial Polk Chapter of the ONS.
Watson Clinic and the Watson Clinic Cancer & Research Center have collaborated with the local chapter of the ONS for a number of years. The annual meeting of the ONS, which is attended by nurses throughout Polk County and beyond, has been held in the Watson Clinic Main library in Lakeland, and many Watson Clinic specialists have shared their expertise by speaking during the event.
“Our organization had an opportunity to give back to the community,” says Ms. Mcalister. “What better way to do that than with a program like Arts in Medicine, which benefits oncology patients?”
“This generous donation will result in additional supplies and resources for each of our program’s participants,” says Arts in Medicine Program Coordinator Eva Hawkins.
The AIM program is made possible by a dedicated group of volunteers comprised of musicians, artists, writers, performers and educators; all joining together to represent a wide range of creative expression. Additional volunteers and donations of various arts supplies are always welcomed.
For more information on the program, please call Ms. Hawkins at 863-603-4718.
ABOUT THE WATSON CLINIC FOUNDATION: Established in 1960, The Watson Clinic Foundation, Inc. is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization whose mission is to promote community wellness through education, research and service. The tax ID # is 59-1100876.
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