“Path to Light and Hope”
Marianne Sarcich
Wilmington, DE
Survivor
Twist on Cancer: Nine years since my breast cancer diagnosis, and here I am still needing all those things to support me that I turned to at the beginning. I’m NED and have been since 2016. But those biopsies and things to watch keep popping up, even this year. It’s why programs like Brushes with Cancer are so pivotal for all of us in cancerland, no matter how long it’s been since diagnosis. Because I know I’m one of so very many dealing with the long-term, lingering issues cancer can bring.
Surrounding myself with people who get me and what I am going through still. That continues to be my number one go-to tool. Those connections are gold, with a healing power unmatched. And, oh my goodness, the connection I made with my artist, Arlene, has been such a gift for me. I shared difficult things with her. She never blinked. She never looked away. She responded with love and questions to learn more. Her response helped me begin to embrace this part of my story that I’d been wishing wasn’t mine. It gave me space and healing. And, a new friend.
Arlene Bonnet
Alexandria, VA
“Path to Light and Hope”
Soft pastel, pastel pencil on pastel card
33” x 25”
$400
Artist Statement: Marianne began her experience with breast cancer in 2016. She survived cancer and as she approaches an important health milestone this December 2025, we explored how Marianne’s experience and time, have influenced her personally and in her role as a survivor and advocate.
We discussed whether our social dialogue adequately extends the net of support around individuals who are experiencing the lingering, sometimes long-term side effects from cancer treatments. Marianne expressed her desire to create a safe and supportive space for individuals to give voice to such challenges.
Marianne and I discussed the labyrinth as an interesting visual representation as
one single path taken that commences at the entrance to the center and back, offering a journey involving uncertainty, yet offering an opportunity for deep reflection and discovery. The path is not one chosen but one that must be traveled.
While the subjects of this piece have embarked on a singular experience, the path is shared by individuals impacted by cancer. Community and strength can exist in shared experience as paths begin, end, and intersect. Marianne stands at the center of the labyrinth, having emerged from her experience with cancer and she extends herself to support others who have yet to reach their center.
I learned that Marianne is “there in the moment,” prepared to listen, share information, extend a hand, or share a comforting cup of coffee. The white blanket that she wraps around individuals that emerge from the labyrinth path, represents her warmth and light.
I am grateful for our paths having intersected and for the friendship, knowledge, and light that Marianne offers to our world.