Kids & Art Foundation is honored to recognize Apu with this year’s Amaeyzing Spirit Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to an individual who is furthering the Foundation’s mission by promoting artistic healing to those affected by childhood cancer.

It is difficult to believe Apu is only 9 years old, given how much she has been through and how much she has achieved! Apu was only five years old when she was diagnosed with cancer (High Risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia). Thankfully, she has completed her treatment and is now cancer free. From 2017, Apu has enjoyed creating art at our Kids & Art Workshops.

Throughout her cancer journey especially the most difficult parts of her treatment, Apu spent hours doodling and generating a collection of art. She found comfort and strength through art. It became her best friend and companion and it still remains her favorite hobby.

Apu and her family converted all her art into a children’s storybook called, ‘How Sunshine Returned to Joyland’. This book is filled with her artwork, poetry and activity prompts. She also includes helpful lessons like ‘dream big’, ‘smile’, ‘enjoy the present’ and ‘have happy thoughts’.

The book is for kids facing difficult challenges like cancer. Apu wants to help them stay positive and never give up. Kids & Art applauds Apu for sharing her art and inspiring other kids in treatment.

Currently, the Kids & Art team have the pleasure of Apu’s company during our weekly virtual art workshops. It is a constant pleasure to see her interpretations of the art projects and her abundance of talent. We love how friendly and encouraging she is with the other participants. Her enthusiasm and curiosity are contagious.