In Spring of 2019, when my sister was diagnosed with a rare endocrine disease, it was an emotionally and financially difficult time for my family. Not to mention, it was nearly impossible for me to interact with my sister outside a calm environment, as she was constantly at risk of a heart attack whenever her heart rate was elevated.

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One of the ways myself and my family were able to cope with this stress was through art. When I visited my sister in the hospital, I would bring watercolor supplies and paper. We would both paint and not speak. It would lower her heart rate and helped us bond. 

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I’ll never forget how something so simple as mindfully painting a flower on a piece of paper could be so beneficial for my family and my sister’s well-being. I saw how simple yet powerful art making was, and I wanted to provide that same resource to others.

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I want HART to provide a safe and calming environment for UCLA students, especially as other organization might not be well known or accessible to everyone.