BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. – Two South Florida teenagers are helping a wide range of patients use art activities to manage stress with their non-profit organization.
The idea for Palette of Life was initially sparked in 2020 by Kangana Modi but was put off due to COVID restrictions. In parallel, Sarrinah Saif was already doing art activities at Broward Health Hospital so with the support of American Heritage’s Pre-Medical advisor the two partnered up.
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In 2022, the American Heritage students developed ideas for how to share their love of art with their community.
Modi’s journey with a medical condition inspired her to start an art-based program for stress relief after receiving treatment at a hospital. She said art helped her during that time.
Saif used art to reconnect with her grandmother after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
The girls work with patients of all ages.
With the help of volunteers, the group spends time with pediatric oncology patients with in-person slime making, goody bags and crafting.
According to Modi, Alzheimer’s, mental health, and dementia patients also spend time painting, scrapbooking and with other crafting projects.
“My favorite thing about working with these patients is the joy I see on their faces when they complete the artwork. It’s a nice break for them and their daily routine,” said Modi.
Their first activity as an established non-profit began in 2023.
The organization has worked with patients at:
* Broward Health Hospital
* Joe DiMaggio’s Children Hospital
* HCA Florida Palms West Hospital
* Providence Living at Pembroke Pines
* Jubilee Assisted Living
* Presidential Place
* Belmont Village
* Alzheimer’s Community Care
For more information about Palette of Life and/ or if you may be interested in the organization’s services as well as details about how to become a volunteer, click on this link.