
Cancer treatments are often physically and mentally challenging for patients, and reducing stress is an important aspect of the healing process. To promote overall emotional health, the ‘Whole Person Initiative’ creates spaces and programs for the Georgia Cancer Center which offer comfort and support to patients, caretakers, providers and team members.
“The GCC Whole-Person Healing Initiative is a long-term collaboration to assess and implement a diverse range of facility and program development projects focused on enhancing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual healing and wellbeing of our patients, families, community, and GCC team members,” said Lauren Bigham, PhD, director of the Georgia Cancer Center’s Psycho-Oncology Program and one of the leaders of the ‘Whole Person Initiative’.
‘Whole Person Initiative’ is funded by Unite in the Fight Against Cancer, a community event with a one mile walk that celebrates and honors all who have been affected by this disease, while raising funds for patient centered programs. With the funds they were given, Bigham and Angela Maskey, the Guests Relations Coordinator for the GCC and co-chair for the program, have been able to make progress on updates for a more positive environment.


LACE: the first-floor Art space
The hallway was decorated with art that, while beautiful, had not changed in years. To start, Bigham and Maskey created Local Artists for Cancer Exhibit (LACE), an art program where local artists with a connection or passion for cancer can display their work along the hallway. Each display lasts from three to six months and includes an opening reception to create awareness, introduce the artists, and connect with the community. 20% of sales from the sales of artwork during this time goes to the Unite fund.

LACE: Permanent exhibit/Patient Art
"Artwork is my way out, it gives me life." - Roel Wielinga
The previous display, donated by cancer survivor and artist Roel Wielinga, was moved to the 2nd floor leading to the Infusion wing. This powerful exhibit, a permanent display of detailed art chronicling his treatment journey, was re-introduced to everyone in 2026 with a reception welcoming Mr. Wielinga and his lovely wife Mariam to meet new fans in the GCC community.

LACE Tribute Gallery
An extension of the Local Artists for Cancer Exhibit initiative which will be located on the first floor near the patient lobby and will display vibrant and soothing paintings in a permanent exhibit. This art will be donated by anyone who wants to purchase pieces from a current or past LACE artist and display it in honor or memory of someone who inspires them.

First-floor Garden space
This meditative garden is available to any GCC team member or guest seeking fresh air and quiet space. In 2024, after seeing the opportunity for some needed attention, a collaborative effort was made with the Whole Person Healing team, the Best Family, the Groundsman Team, and Cable Best and his Eagle Scout group. New planters were built and installed, along with a new large ceramic pot, the furniture was refinished, the patio was pressure washed and a new self-watering system was added for sustainability, as well as new plants for added enjoyment.

Appearances & Amenities
The Whole Person Healing Team received a grant to make needed updates to lounge spaces as needed and has already revived the Directory signage which sat dormant in the lobby area for many years. Future signage and amenity needs for the patient waiting areas will fall under this program.

Workplace Wellness
Realizing the importance of supportive spaces to the GCC team, the first-floor nursing breakroom received a significant renovation in 2026, with new appliances, paint, art, furniture, decorations, locker space and supplies. It was unveiled during a LACE exhibit event and allowed for more enjoyable and functional use of the space.

Meditation room space
This underutilized space will be transformed into a comforting atmosphere, with less of a conference room feel and more of a place that encourages mindfulness and quiet healing time, to benefit our patients, families and team members with a space designed for improved mental health.

Programs
Activities such as light yoga, guided meditation, art therapy, music therapy and other supportive programs will be offered to provide options for mental and emotional healing and sense of community.

Pat Sodomka Library
A resource for patients and caretakers seeking cancer information or a quiet place to wait for treatment appointments. This space was updated in 2026 with updated paint, new art, print material and new books for the children’s area. This update was made with support from Emily Harris, GCC Library Coordinator, and Greenblatt Library.
To learn more about this program, follow us on Facebook to be kept up to date on it and the other programs funded by Unite in the Fight Against Cancer, or contact Angela Maskey or Dr. Lauren Bigham.
The Georgia Cancer Center at Augusta University is dedicated to reducing the burden of cancer in Georgia and across the globe through superior care, innovation, and education. Through unprecedented expansion, the Georgia Cancer Center is providing access to more first-in-the-nation clinical trials, world-renowned experts and life-saving options.
Follow the Georgia Cancer Center