KOCHI: It was a heart-warming and unforgettable feeling for the patients at the cancer ward of Ernakulam government general hospital when the Kerala Cartoon Academy organised a unique programme named ‘Caring Lines’ for them.
The innovative programme, organised at the hospital on Monday in association with the ‘reach out’ initiative of Hibi Eden MLA, provided much needed relief from fear and grief for the patients and their relatives. Inmates of the cancer ward were excited to see cartoonists sketching their figures on a white board.
The artists could suddenly change the hospital ambience when they portrayed the favourite characters of the patients in vibrant colours.
An interactive programme was also conducted during which they shared their memories, experiences and hopes.
The programme was conducted in two sessions. During the live caricature show, the artists sketched the cartoons of the patients while in the second session, the characters suggested by the inmates were portrayed.
The cartoon of a cancer survivor girl was hung on the wall of the hospital ward.
According to Anoop Radhakrishnan, programme coordinator, the picture would help to provide much needed inspiration for those affected by the dreaded disease.
The Kerala Cartoon Academy has initiated unique concepts to respond to social issues using cartoons and caricatures. Hibi Eden MLA also attended the programme.
“Our objective was to bring a smile on their faces through care and love through the programme,” said Prasannan Anickad, chairman of the Kerala Cartoonist Academy.
The Academy has plans to conduct similar programmes in the regional cancer centre, orphanages and homes for the elderly during the next phase.
