Doctors in 2005 gave a Colorado woman weeks to live; she fought back, and in 2015, she built a free art programme for cancer patients

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be devastating. It can deter even the strongest of individuals and make your self-esteem crumble. However, even after she was diagnosed with cancer and told she had only days to live, Vicki Mackie refused to be overpowered by depression. Instead, she channelled her emotional devastation into creating a free art programme that assists cancer patients cope with their trauma through art. At a time when the world was disintegrating around her, Vicki gave her all to create a haven where there would be art, but not just art that is appreciated by enthusiasts but also art that healed.

In 2005, Vicki was preparing to become a full-time artist. However, her dreams got derailed; she was diagnosed with stage three metastatic breast cancer. Though she underwent treatment, the emotional devastation did not stop; she was informed the cancer had spread to her lungs.

Instead of giving in to depression, Vicki decided to leave a legacy. A resident of Colorado, she founded Sites & Insights in 2016, an art programme for those battling cancer - it was also absolutely free of cost too. Participants can cope with their trauma through art workshops virtually or through physical classes.


Kerry Frank discovered the therapeutic power of art during one of the toughest times in her life. Following her diagnosis of an aggressive form of breast cancer in early 2022, she experienced a tiring series of medical tests and treatments, providing her minimal chances to cope with the emotional and psychological burden of the disease. Her participation in the Sites and Insights programme ultimately provided her a means to work through those challenging experiences. Frank found that engaging in creative activities could offer surprising emotional comfort and act as a potent type of therapy.

The project investigates multiple methods of artistic expression, going beyond conventional painting on canvas. Frank believes that every session she attended has provided valuable insights, assisting her in managing the recovery journey and dealing with the difficulties she encountered.

According to CBS News, participants can use sponges and Q-tips to colour the canvas. The programme doesn’t just offer healing with music but also meditation and music.

More About Sites & Insights

As per details shared by the website, the programme operates through the SAI method, which offers healing through colour and art. The purpose of the programme is not just to provide a distraction to cancer survivors and those battling the disease but also to address the stress, anxiety and fear that can delay response to treatment.

Can Art Help Cancer Patients?

According to a study published in JAMA, cancer patients who were exposed to art therapy had reduced anxiety levels and also pain reduction.