RFH Art Students Help Create a Restful Healing Space for Area Cancer Patient

Members of the National Art Honor Society (NAHS) of Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School recently put their talents to work to brighten the living space of an area woman being treated for cancer.

The students worked with the non-profit organization Lin's Linens, Inc., which supports female cancer patients by re-decorating a room within their homes to encourage rest and healing.

The students worked with the non-profit organization Lin's Linens, Inc., which supports female cancer patients by re-decorating a room within their homes to encourage rest and healing.

Students participating in the project included seniors Chelsea Chinery, Matthew (Matt) Dell, Matthew (Matt) Hervilly, Rachel Knochenhauer, Enzo Lucarelli, Kate Sherman, and Jacob (Jake) Sillen  and sophomores Sheridan Camarata, Christian Capanelli, Jacqueline (Jackie) Kho, and Kiera McKay.

Lin's Linens, Inc. is named for the sister of designer Liz Balogh, with whom the NAHS student volunteers worked on the project. Balogh's sister Lin had been battling cancer for 12 years when she experienced a recurrence four years ago.

"I was at a loss for what I could do for her beyond the standard love and support," said Balogh. "That's when I came up with the idea of re-doing her bedroom, which was a natural response considering the fact that I am an interior designer."

Knowing that her sister would be spending more time resting, Balogh set about to create a nurturing and spa-like sanctuary that would serve as a healing retreat. She then began Lin's Linens, Inc. in order to provide that same experience for others.

"I know how strongly we are influenced by our surroundings, and creating that positive energy around someone who is very ill can nourish the spirit and help that person battle to regain good health."

Balogh found the perfect candidate after being approached by RFH Art Teacher and NAHS Advisor Kristen Lanfrank about the students' desire to volunteer.

"The woman I chose to be their Program Sister is a teacher of dance, and wanted a space that would nurture her creativity," said Balogh. "I felt that this was the perfect pairing of talents and positive intent."

Balogh then met with the students and came up with a design plan.

"I challenged the students to be inspired by their Program Sister and to create all original works of art to work with our design plan," she said.

The NAHS group did not disappoint.

They created two original paintings, a wooden wall hanging, a sculptural wind chime, numerous pieces of pottery, and a wooden box designed to hold art supplies. In addition they held fundraisers for Lin's Linens, which relies solely on private contributions to cover costs.

The students worked on February 28, March 1, and March 2 to prep, clean, paint, assemble furniture, hang drapes and install artwork.

"Most of all, they infused the space with life and love," said Balogh. 

"I was so impressed with these young people," said Balogh. "They were dedicated, considerate, and very compassionate."

"Seeing them understand the importance of giving of themselves makes me optimistic for this generation."

The NAHS volunteers took something away from their work with Lin's Linens, Inc. as well.

"It was an awesome experience to use our talents to make a difference in someone's life," they said.

Lin's Linens, Inc. was recently featured on NBC's "Make a Difference" and in Design NJ magazine. To volunteer or contribute, and to view room transformations, visit www.linslinens.org.