Wings of Cancer was founded in 2014 as part of my IB CAS project, inspired by my mother’s strength during her battle with breast cancer. During her long hours of chemotherapy, she described the experience as isolating, exhausting, and monotonous. To pass the time, she began folding origami cranes—an art form that not only kept her hands engaged but also provided a sense of calm and purpose.
As a Japanese American, I grew up hearing the story of a thousand cranes, a symbol of hope and healing. In learning more about the effects of cancer on joint mobility, I discovered that activities like origami could be beneficial for dexterity and fine motor skills. This realization led me to create Wings of Cancer, an organization dedicated to teaching cancer patients how to fold origami cranes as a form of therapy and encouragement.
Through our efforts, we folded and donated over 3,000 cranes to the Sacred Heart Oncology Center in Pensacola, where my mother received treatment. Each crane carried the wishes of cancer patients for a brighter future. In addition to this, I designed and sold origami paper earrings to raise funds for cancer research, ultimately donating over $1,000 to Sacred Heart Cancer Research.
Now, more than a decade later, I am a third-year medical student pursuing a career in oncology. Having been diagnosed with melanoma at 15 and witnessing firsthand the profound impact of cancer on patients and their families, I am deeply committed to patient advocacy and compassionate care. Wings of Cancer remains a testament to this passion—a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can bring comfort and hope to those in need.
