Coloring Canvases Give Families Unexpected Comfort and Hope

Longmont's Circle Graphics donates canvases to Ronald McDonald House of Durham

Stress relief through a creative outlet – that’s what Circle Graphics provides parents and families staying at the Ronald McDonald House of Durham & Wake (RMHDW) in their time of need.

Since the spring of 2016, Circle Graphics has donated over 150 coloring canvases to give more than 50 RMHDW families support while their child is hospitalized and receiving critical medical care. Almost half of the families who stay at the House are immunosuppressed, meaning they are on constant isolation from other people or public places for months, or even a year at a time. 

“No matter how many board games are played or Instagram posts read, this can be a trying and often lonely time for families,” said Stephanie Whigham, Director of Family Care at Ronald McDonald House of Durham. “It’s a struggle to find meaningful activities for those who cannot be out in the common spaces. The canvases were exactly what they needed, parents and older patients alike, to stimulate the mind and calm the body. We are so thankful for Circle Graphics’ generosity!”

Viesta King checked in at RMHDW at the end of August 2016 when her 15-year-old daughter, Jessica, was in need of a heart transplant. King waited on a compatible heart while her daughter was in the hospital on life-saving equipment.

During her almost six week waiting period, King was given a canvas from Circle Graphics. She shared with the staff that the canvas helped her get through one of the most difficult times of her life. When the anxiety became overwhelming, King said she focused her energy on filling in the shapes on the canvas to remain calm and focused.

Jessica now has a new heart and is slowly recovering and growing stronger. King said the canvas she colored will always serve as a reminder of the strength and beauty she sees in her daughter.

“Our team has been volunteering to cook meals for Ronald McDonald House for many years, but we wanted to find a way to do more,” said Gavin Jocius, Executive Vice President of Circle Graphics Art Division. “The coloring canvases were a perfect blend of stress relief and creativity to give families a gift that was truly from Circle Graphics’ heart. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Ronald McDonald House and helping families like Mrs. King’s.”  

Circle Graphics’ canvases offer designs and patterns for a range of skill levels from beginner to expert and include feathers, submarines, peacocks, geometric shapes, quotes and more. These coloring canvases are available online with prices starting at $18. To learn more about Circle Graphics, visit www.circlegraphicsonline.com.