A Source of Sunshine

Sunshine has many sources and we have discovered one of the most brilliant. We are delighted “working” for the Sunshine Kids!

Over 100 Sunshine Kids and families came Sunday to celebrate together at La Playa Beach Resort in Naples, Florida. Children currently in cancer therapy treatment, children who have just completed their treatment and children who are in remission.

Last month strategizing a detailed itinerary with Senior Program Manager, Janet Yon, in charge of Sunshine Kids of Southwest Florida, I mused with Roland… “Congratulations! You now have a full time volunteer job!”

He’s such a sweet man. “OK!”

Roland is always a serious, professional teacher. I was worried that the children would not understand him but they waited for his thoughts, direction, cue. It was astounding!

You could not tell the hardship they and their families have faced. There was so much love and fun and skillfully planned activities which we were thrilled to be part of!

Roland offered a "Plein Air" workshop for over a dozen children who signed up for his course to learn the technique of painting from life, “en Plein Air” while observing the beauty of the ever-changing sea and sky before them. They were incredibly devoted to listening to him and following his direction.

He taught them to paint using only the primary colors - red, yellow, blue – and one of the first lessons was "How to Learn to See." In this case, how to See the Sea!

We were in awe of their receptivity and talent, and very challenged by their astonishing will to paint beautifully and seriously! They have faced the worst and embrace the best. This was such a special day, we honestly can’t wait for the next. We were thrilled with the paintings that resulted from our day’s efforts! Aren’t they incredible?