My name is Isabella, and my journey with Wings of Cancer began in 2014 when I founded the volunteer organization as part of my IB CAS project at Pensacola High School. Inspired by my mother’s battle with breast cancer, I wanted to find a way to bring comfort and creativity to patients undergoing treatment. My mother often described chemotherapy as long, exhausting, and isolating. To pass the time, she started folding origami cranes—a simple yet meaningful practice that not only kept her hands busy but also brought her a sense of peace.

As a Japanese American, I grew up hearing the legend of a thousand cranes, a symbol of hope and healing. When I learned that activities like origami could help improve dexterity—especially for patients affected by cancer treatment—I founded Wings of Cancer to share this practice with others. Our organization has since taught cancer patients how to fold origami cranes, ultimately creating and donating over 3,000 cranes to the Sacred Heart Oncology Center in Pensacola, where my mother received her treatment. Each crane carried the wishes of patients for a brighter future.

Beyond origami, I also designed and sold handcrafted origami paper earrings to raise money for cancer research, successfully 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 age 15 and witnessing firsthand the profound impact of cancer on patients and their families, I am deeply passionate about patient advocacy and compassionate care.

Wings of Cancer remains a deeply personal project, reminding me of my roots in cancer advocacy and the importance of bringing comfort, creativity, and community to those in need. My goal is to continue this mission as a physician, blending art, science, and human connection to support patients through their journeys.