Cancer patients fold 1,000 cranes for hope

posted December 9th, 2009

The Duke Cancer Patient Support Program (DCPSP) launched a project in May 2009 to fold 1,000 paper cranes by June 2010 for National Cancer Survivors Day. The project originated from similar projects -- the flags of hope displayed in the fall of 2008 and arts and crafts sessions held in the clinics, including origami -- that drew positive feedback from patients and caregivers.

The idea for the 1,000 cranes project was inspired by the story of a young Japanese girl, Sadako Sasaki, who developed leukemia as a result of radiation from the atomic bombing of Hiroshima during WWII. While in the hospital after being diagnosed with leukemia, Sadako's best friend brought a piece of golden paper to her room and folded it into a crane. The crane symbolized an ancient Japanese legend that anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes will be granted a wish by a crane. Even though Sadako was given less than one year to live, she worked hard to meet her goal of 1,000 paper cranes so that her wish for world peace would be made.

The DCPSP put together kits for patients to fold cranes while they waited for their appointments/treatments. The cranes soon became a hit in the waiting rooms and on the hospital units. Patients, families, staff and groups from the community were folding cranes and sending them to the DCPSP. The cranes included the individuals' wishes and soon became a symbol of hope and unity. Patients were brought closer to their families and other patients by folding the cranes.

The original goal to fold 1,000 cranes was reached within a few weeks and now there more than 2,500 cranes. The cranes are a rainbow of different colors and shapes. They symbolize the diversity among cancer patients, but as they are all strung together there is a connection, not unlike the connection cancer patients have.

The cranes have been on display in the hospital, waiting rooms, and even staff's desks. The DCPSP is still receiving cranes and plans to display the full collection at Survivors Day 2010.

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