When her father was hit by brain cancer, Isabelle found a way to keep the world moving—by taking pictures of Prospect Park each Saturday.
She captured the park in every season, turning the same paths into a visual diary that reflected both the routine she loved and the uncertainty she faced. The shots ranged from sun‑lit lawns in summer to snow‑blanketed trees in winter, each frame a quiet reminder that life goes on.
After a year of shooting, she turned the images into a community print sale at the VFW Post on Prospect Avenue. Of the 30 framed prints, 27 found buyers, and all proceeds went to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. The event drew local residents, a small print lab, and a copy shop that printed the posters—an entire neighborhood coming together.
The project illustrates how creative outlets can buffer caregiver stress. Dr. Arjun Patel, a behavioral oncology specialist, explains that activities like photography give caregivers a sense of control and reduce anxiety by shifting focus from the illness to a personal skill.
If you’re dealing with a loved one’s illness, consider a simple hobby—photography, drawing, or journaling—to give yourself a pause and a chance to contribute. Talk to a counselor about incorporating creative therapy into your routine, and remember that every small act can make a big difference for both your well‑being and the fight against cancer.