Cancer patients draw strength from colourful poster at TUH

For cancer patient Colin Toby, the communal colouring-in poster on the wall of Townsville University Hospital’s oncology ward is the greatest thing he has seen for a long time.

The poster sits proudly on the wall of the patient common area, where, once it started as a canvas of black lines and white spaces, it is now a vibrant and colourful reminder to patients to stay strong.

Patients have been encouraged to grab one of the provided pens and colour in parts of it when they can to help add some colour to the ward and get them out of bed to aid in their recovery.

Mr Toby has been in and out of the ward over the last few months and said it has lifted the mood among patients.

“You think of it as a sad ward, but that poster actually picks people up,” Mr Toby said.

“I come out and look at it every day. It’s a conversation starter, mate, no worries about that. Every time I get my visitors we talk about it. Everyone thinks it’s great.

“Seeing the picture change every day as people colour in a little more has been one of the highlights of my time on the ward.

“It has motivated me to get out of bed just to walk and see it.”

Registered nurse Rachel Edlington was behind the idea and hoped the poster would further improve the in-hospital experience for patients.

“It was partly to be a mindfulness exercise for patients, but also to help them get moving,” Ms Edlington said.

“The message in the middle, ‘I am strong’, is a reminder for patients to stay strong through their treatment journey and never give up.

“On the Oncology ward, many patients are admitted for long periods, and having something new and engaging in their day helps break the monotony.

“This initiative not only adds something positive to the ward but also brings patients and their stories together in a meaningful way. It is a reminder that even in challenging times, small gestures can make a big difference.

“It’s been wonderful to see how well received it has been and to see patients, children, and visitors gathering around it, chatting, and adding their own personal touch.”