Phase 2 of the Whole-Person Healing Initiative Underway Thanks to Unite in the Fight

Cancer treatments are often physically and mentally challenging for patients, and reducing stress is often an afterthought. To promote mental and emotional health, the ‘Whole Person Initiative’ takes unused spaces in the Georgia Cancer Center’s Outpatient Clinic and turns them into areas which are soothing and supportive to patients and staff members.

“The GCC Whole-Person Healing Initiative is a long-term collaboration to assess and implement a diverse range of facility and program development projects focused on enhancing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual healing and wellbeing of our patients, families, community, and GCC team members,” said Lauren Bigham, PhD, director of the Georgia Cancer Center’s Psycho-Oncology Program and one of the leaders of the ‘Whole Person Initiative’.

‘Whole Person Initiative’ was funded in 2023 by Unite in the Fight Against Cancer. Unite is a one mile walk that celebrates and honors all who have been affected by this disease, while raising funds for patient centered programs. With the funds they were given, Bigham and Angela Maskey, the Guests Relations Coordinator for the GCC and co-chair for the program, have been able to make progress on updates for a more positive environment.

The two areas of concern were the first-floor garden space and the adjacent hallway. The hallway was decorated with art that, while beautiful, had not changed in years and lacked the vibrancy desired to brighten up the space. The garden greatly needed attention, making it less desirable to visit.

To start, Bigham and Maskey created Local Artists for Cancer Exhibit (LACE), an art program where local artists with a connection or passion for cancer can display their work along the hallway. Each display lasts from three to six months and includes an opening reception to create awareness, introduce the artists, and connect with the community. 20% of sales from the sales of artwork during this time goes to the Unite fund. Currently they are on their fifth exhibit, with more planned for the future.

The garden space was a collaboration effort with the Best Family, the Groundsman Team, and Cable Best and his Eagle Scout group. New planters were built and installed, along with a new large ceramic pot, the furniture was refinished, the patio was pressure washed and now features a new self-watering system for sustainability, and new plants were planted to finish the renovation. Ceramic flowers from Stallings Island Middle School art students added pops of color.

For phase 2, Maskey and Bigham plan to tackle the underutilized meditation room outside the garden, turning it into a highly functional area with a soothing atmosphere and supportive programs.

“We hope that our efforts can benefit our patients, families and team members with spaces and programs designed for improved mental health,” said Maskey.

If you would like to learn more about this program, follow us on Facebook to be kept up to date on it and the other programs funded by Unite in the Fight Against Cancer. Unite in the Fight Against Cancer will be held on May 3, 2025. You can find more information by visiting our website and Facebook event page. We encourage all to join us in the fight against cancer