Gabriel Pina, 12, of Garland, is a featured artist in the Children’s Cancer Fund + NorthPark Center “Healing Works” Art Exhibit. Healing Works is a curated four-week experience from April 1 through 29 at NorthPark Center, staging the stories of local children who are in the fight of their lives. This interactive exhibit features installations by childhood cancer patients. Each masterpiece was created with the guidance of highly trained art and pet therapists.
Art therapy is a creative form of treatment for kids experiencing medical, developmental, educational, or psychological challenges. This inspiring process resulting in unique artwork helps children through the therapeutic and healing process during and after cancer treatment.
Pet Therapy provides affection, comfort and support to children who are battling cancer. The unconditional bond formed between children and therapy dogs brings much-needed comfort during difficult times. Pet Therapy helps with emotional, psychological, and social issues after being hospitalized.
Gabriel fought hard for three years and was declared cancer-free in August of 2020. Gabriel is outgoing, friendly, and happiest when he is around his family and friends, who always cheer him on. He loves to build, play video games, and draw. When Gabriel grows up, he wants to be a software engineer. 
Gabriel painted a river and shining sun. His favorite part about painting is how much fun it was to create this artwork.
Honorary Chair Roger Staubach said, “CCF is brightening the lives of patients through the tough times, and even through Covid.” Healing Works aims to bring awareness to the struggle and the triumph of children. Some have beaten the worst odds, defying death thanks to the cutting-edge treatment provided by local doctors. As you walk through this exhibit, you will learn the stories, see the smiles, and experience the journey these local families are living.
“The Dallas community is coming together to support this initiative with an outpouring of support,” said Children’s Cancer Fund Executive Director Jennifer Arthur. “Everyone will want to come to NorthPark to see the magic created by the kids.”
We invite you to engage in this interactive exhibit to learn more about each cancer survivor, the impact that art and pet therapy provide to kids, and the critical funds need to provide this kind of treatment.
To purchase a print of the artwork, simply scan the QR code on each panel.
Visit Pina’s personal fundraising page: www.childrenscancerfund.com/artwork/gabriel
Dates: April 1 – 29, 2021
Location: NorthPark Center between Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus