Windows of Hope unveiling aimed at helping cancer patients
SPRINGFIELD Jewelry of Hope's Seventh Annual "Open Studio Gala" event is more than just an opportunity for author and jewelry designer Beth-Ann Latsko to showcase her "hope" jewelry designs; it also has turned into a special event which helps with important causes, such as helping cancer patients, in the Western Massachusetts area.
This year, the event, which will once again be held at Barney Estate in Springfield's Forest Park on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m., will also be the setting for a meaningful unveiling and dedication ceremony, in which Latsko's most recent inspiring undertaking, "Windows of Hope," will be introduced to guests in attendance.
"Windows of Hope" was launched by Latsko after she was inspired to use art as a way of helping people to heal. The windows are stained glass angel creations designed by Latsko, the first of which was created by Latsko herself, which help to add a source of light and brightness to wellness, treatment center locations, and even homes.
Although originally Latsko's first window creation was meant for her home, she soon realized that the beauty and magnificent source of comfort which came from looking at the window would be better off elsewhere in a place where it could touch others and hopefully will inspire them to get well and to have hope for what lies ahead. She would eventually end up designing four windows total, all of which were donated to The Caritas Cancer Treatment Center at Mercy Hospital.
The treatment center received the dedicated windows from Jewelry of Hope, where they have been mounted on display for patients undergoing treatment to look at as a source of comfort and strength.
The dedication and blessing of the windows will take place at the Jewelry of Hope "Open Studio Gala," where Sr. Caritas, whom the treatment center was named in honor of, will say a few words of hope, and Latsko's brother, Dominican Father David Caron, will bestow the blessing.
"This year's event is really special for me as I introduce 'The Windows of Hope,' and celebrate the blessing and dedication of the stained glass angel windows. I believe that it's so important that when patients are receiving care, they have surroundings that help to make them feel comforted, encouraged and strong. The windows provide feelings of hope, inspiration and tranquility, all of the things that the beauty of stained glass represents. The windows are meant to help initiate positive and hopeful feelings in the room. I feel incredibly fulfilled when a nurse, family member or patient tells me that they enjoy and appreciate being able to see the windows when they are in the facility. If I can help make the treatment process a little easier or more comforting for even just one person, then the windows have served their purpose," Latsko said.
For more information or to learn how you can be a part of this special event, visit www.jewelryofhope.com for contact information.
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