Ms. N. said that every 3 weeks, she packs up and goes to Ho Chi Minh City for breast cancer treatment. Two years ago, she was found to have a tumor in her breast and had surgery. However, she thought she was cured and could not travel far, so she did not go to Ho Chi Minh City for regular specialist check-ups. In May 2023, when she started coughing a lot, she went to Military Hospital 175 for a check-up and was found to have metastasized to her lungs. She has now received 6 chemotherapy sessions.

"This time I went to Ho Chi Minh City to have my next chemotherapy session. I was very surprised when the hospital organized such a meaningful painting activity for patients. I work as a tailor so I have painted on clothes before, but this is my first time painting, I feel very excited," Ms. N. shared.

In another corner, the designer (62 years old, from Quang Ngai) is also engrossed in her painting. She is currently taking care of her husband who is being treated for stage 4 lung cancer at the Institute of Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Military Hospital 175.

"She painted a picture of a warm house with a garden, flowers, and family members gathered together. Through the picture, she wished him a speedy recovery so he could return to his family," Ms. K. expressed.

Meanwhile, Ms. NNP (54 years old, Cai Be, Tien Giang), a breast cancer patient, was drawing sunflowers while smiling and whispering "Keep going, keep going!". Ms. P's cheerful optimism seemed to spread to the other patients sitting with her.

More than 50 patients and medical staff immersed themselves in the space with meditation music and colorful drawings and coloring. The patients seemed to forget the pain of illness, becoming passionate artists, soaring with artistic drawings.

Colonel - Doctor Dao Tien Manh, Director of the Institute of Oncology and Nuclear Medicine (175 Military Hospital), said that mental health is increasingly focused on in comprehensive health care for people. In particular, in the hospital environment, especially for patients undergoing cancer treatment, mental health also needs attention. In the process of fighting the disease, we always provide comprehensive care for both the physical and mental health of patients, connecting to organize activities to improve the spirit of patients, including relaxing painting workshops.

In response to the International Day for Palliative and End-of-Life Care for Cancer Patients (October 14) and Vietnamese Women's Day (October 20), the Institute of Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Military Hospital 175 organized a relaxing painting session with the theme "Coloring Faith" for cancer patients and medical staff.

"I hope that with the theme "Coloring Faith", the colors will help to rekindle aspirations and give strength to patients in their journey to fight cancer," Dr. Manh shared.

After more than 1 hour of creation, the paintings were completed. All patients and medical staff were happy and excited with their work.

In addition, the program also presented 100 gifts to disadvantaged patients, 50 gifts, 100 woolen flower bouquets, and calligraphy to patients and medical staff on the occasion of Vietnamese Women's Day October 20.