Hope Canvas exhibition in Jordan draws smiles on faces of children with cancer

AMMAN－A special exhibition, featuring 400 paintings drawn by 890 children with cancer from Jordan and abroad, ended last Thursday as part of a charity campaign aiming to boost the morale of the children fighting cancers.

The exhibition, titled Hope Canvas, was organized by Jordanian hairdresser Nehad Dabbas, who says the show serves as a remedy for the kids through the expression of dreams, fears and hopes.

"Focusing on boosting the morale of children with cancer is as important as providing them with medical treatment," Dabbas says.

He notes that the income from selling the exhibited items would help fund a wig-making initiative dedicated to the kids suffering from hair loss due to chemotherapy.

"We want to increase awareness about the issue of children with cancer and provide them with tangible support," he adds.

Drawing inspiration from his experience in 2017, when he gave out natural wigs for free to children with cancer, Dabbas says donations and income from selling the paintings have so far helped the campaign to offer 350 handmade wigs.

Children and their parents who came to the exhibition expressed their support. Those who have been fighting the diseases voiced happiness for being a part of the fair.

Ayan, an 8-year-old cancer patient, says she was excited. "I took part in this exhibition because it made me express my feelings. I felt better," she says.

"She drew herself having long hair... My daughter felt good to participate, and she now feels stronger," says Alaa Hamdan, Ayan's mother.

Farah, a 13-year-old who volunteered in organizing the exhibition, says the event is about helping others.

"I wanted to help in all the ways I can as this initiative gives cancer patients positive energy," she says. "We draw smiles on their faces during this initiative."

Dabbas says he appreciated all supportive individuals and parties, including those from China, and called for sustained efforts across society to benefit more patients.

"I was surprised. A Chinese has sent us around 15 wigs after knowing our initiative. I am very thankful for them," he says.

"Our initiative is for a good cause, and we wish to get more support to revive hope for cancer patients and help them in all possible ways," Dabbas adds.